Apex Court halts dismantling of INS Viraat
February 10, 2021
INS Viraat awaiting dismantling at a scrapping yard at Alang - -×
The Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered
status quo on the dismantling of the Navy’s decommissioned aircraft-carrier, INS Viraat.
A Bench led by Chief Justice Sharad A Bobde issued notice to the Union of India and Shree Ram Group of Industries, arraigned as respondents in the special leave petition filed by Envitech Marine Consultants Private Limited, Vishnukant Sharma and Rupali Vishnukant Sharma.
“Parties are directed to maintain
status quo with regard to dismantling/breaking of the subject-ship known as INS Viraat, as on date,” the Supreme Court ordered. Envitech had earlier approached the Bombay High Court with a request to buy the decommissioned Viraat so that it could be converted into a maritime museum and a multi-functional adventure centre. The High Court had asked the government to take acall. The warship is currently awaiting dismantling at the ship scrapping yard at Alang in Gujarat. “The hull is still intact,” Rupali Sharma, appearing in person, submitted before the Bench.