The Karnataka High Court on Friday firmly declined to extend the deadline for online applications under the State’s Laptop and Braille Kit Scheme 2025. The verdict, delivered on October 31 by Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C.M. Poonacha, came as a setback for a visually impaired petitioner who sought 60 more days for students to apply.
The last date for applications was already set for October 31 - the very day of the hearing. Despite emotional pleas about accessibility challenges, the bench maintained that the government had already provided sufficient extensions.
Background
The Laptop and Braille Kit Scheme 2025 was launched to support visually impaired students through digital learning tools, promoting educational inclusivity. Initially, the application portal opened on September 26 and was scheduled to close on September 30. However, after representations from various groups, the authorities extended the deadline twice - first to October 15, and then again to October 31.
The petitioner, Advocate N. Shreyas, who is visually impaired himself, argued in person. He explained that many applicants faced difficulties gathering the necessary documents within the stipulated time. He clarified that his petition was not for personal gain but to protect the interests of similarly placed students across Karnataka.
“The process takes time for visually challenged individuals - from document collection to submission. Extending the deadline would ensure equal access,” he told the bench.
Court’s Observations
The division bench acknowledged the petitioner’s concerns but noted that the State had already shown flexibility. Chief Justice Bakhru observed, “The deadline has been extended twice before. We do not find any reason to direct a further extension.”
During the brief yet focused hearing, the bench also pointed out that the scheme’s online nature made it easier for applicants to file on time. “It is to be submitted online. The portal has been opened twice. If somebody comes before us with a genuine impediment, we will consider it,” the court orally remarked.
The judges further reminded that a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) cannot replace administrative discretion, adding that courts should not overstep in policy timelines unless gross injustice is evident.
Decision
Dismissing the PIL, the bench clarified that its order wouldn’t bar individuals facing genuine hardships from approaching the court separately.
The order stated,“This will not preclude any affected individual who has been unable to file his application on account of any difficulty to approach this Court for seeking appropriate relief.”
With this, the court disposed of the petition.
The decision leaves the October 31 deadline intact, signaling that the State’s welfare deadlines, once reasonably extended, will not be kept open indefinitely - even for well-intentioned causes.
Case Title: N. Shreyas vs. State of Karnataka & Others
Case No.: WP 32517/2025
Court: Karnataka High Court, Bengaluru
Bench: Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C.M. Poonacha
Date of Order: October 31, 2025