In a letter to the prime minister, cabinet secretary and industry secretary, the Auto Component Manufacturers Association of India has sought Government help in modifying the SC emission norms order.

Arguing that the component industry is not in a position to supply Euro-compliant parts in such a short time span, the association requested the Government to seek extension up to April 1, 2000, for Euro-I norms and April 1, 2002, for complying with Euro-II norms.

Speaking to mediapersons, former Acma president Surinder Kapoor said that only the Government is in a position to seek modification as the court order does not permit any other party to approach for any change in the guidelines. The Government could file a petition in the apex court seeking extension of the June 1, 1999, and April 1, 2000, deadlines formeeting Euro-I and Euro-II norms respectively, he said.

Kapoor said that component manufacturers would be badly hit by the apex court's present order. This will lead to loss of business and investment in the industry. The small-scale sector will be most hit,, Kapoor added.