In Brief
The Supreme Court upheld a Tamil Nadu government scheme waiving crop loans for small and marginal farmers while excluding larger landholders. The High Court had struck down the scheme as violating equality rights (Article 14) by arbitrarily excluding other farmers. The Supreme Court reversed this, holding the classification rational because small and marginal farmers face greater economic hardship and vulnerability to climate crises, justifying targeted benefits. The Court clarified that courts defer to social welfare policies unless unconstitutional, and that electoral promises do not make schemes suspect. During proceedings, the State extended benefits further. The appeal was allowed and the High Court's judgment set aside.
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.