New Delhi/IBNS, March 23 -- The Supreme Court has delivered a sharp rebuke to the West Bengal government over delays in completing a crucial stretch of the Kolkata Metro's Orange Line, calling the hold-up a serious lapse in constitutional responsibility.

A bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi on Monday dismissed the state's plea challenging a prior High Court directive.

The court said the delay reflected an "obstinate attitude" aimed at stalling a key public infrastructure project.

The bench did not hold back in its criticism, stating that the state authorities had failed in their constitutional obligations.

The judges observed that the Calcutta High Court had already shown restraint and leniency,...