- (1.) Taken on board. This matter was last heard on 8-9-2009. On that date, Dr. A.M. Singhvi, learned Senior Counsel appearing for the applicant, concluded his arguments and while Mr S.C. Misra, learned Senior Counsel appearing on behalf of the State of Uttar Pradesh, was on his legs, the Court had to rise for the day. After hearing the matter for over two hours, we were inclined to pass some interim orders till the matter was next taken up on 29-9-2009. At that time, however, Mr S.C. Misra, gave an undertaking that no further constructions will be carried on at the project sites covered by different writ petitions pending in the Allahabad High Court. In view of the clear and definite undertaking given on behalf of the State of Uttar Pradesh, there was no need for the Court to pass any formal interim order.
(2.) However, from the reports appearing in the print media (The Times of India, New Delhi, Thursday, 10-9-2009, and The Hindu, City Edition, Delhi, Friday, 11-9-2009) and the electronic media (NDTV 24x7, programme telecast in the evening of 10-9-2009), it appears that, despite the undertaking, there is no let up and the work is progressing in full swing on the project sites in question.
(3.) In view of the disquieting reports appearing in the media, we decided to take up the matter when this Bench would assemble, as per today's constitution, in connection with some other case. The learned counsel for the parties were accordingly informed and asked to be present in the Court in connection with this case. Mr Gopal Subramanium, learned Solicitor General for India, was also requested to be present to assist the Court as amicus curiae. The matter was taken up at 12.45 p.m.;