Mr. Prakash highlighted that Tamil Nadu has reported a significantly low number of cases under environmental protection laws, with only 4 cases under the Environment Act and 22 cases under the Water and Air Acts from 2014 to 2022. This is a major difference to the national figures, which stand at 2,839 and 1,094 cases respectively, based on data from the National Crime Records Bureau.
The Citizen Consumer and Civic Action Group (CAG) is preparing to launch an environmental law enforcement manual designed to improve the investigation and prosecution of environmental crimes. This manual provides guidelines to help various agencies enhance cooperation, streamline investigations, and reinforce the enforcement of environmental laws.
One of its main goals is to change the perception of environmental violations from minor infractions to serious criminal offenses, according to Shankar Prakash, Senior Researcher at CAG, who contributed to the manual’s development.
Mr. Prakash highlighted that Tamil Nadu has reported a significantly low number of cases under environmental protection laws, with only 4 cases under the Environment Act and 22 cases under the Water and Air Acts from 2014 to 2022. This is a major difference to the national figures, which stand at 2,839 and 1,094 cases respectively, based on data from the National Crime Records Bureau.
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During a stakeholder discussion hosted by CAG on Friday, officials from key agencies such as the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, Chennai Metro Water Sewerage Supply Board, Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage Board, and the Greater Chennai Corporation discussed the challenges they encounter in enforcing environmental laws.
The manual outlines comprehensive procedures for investigating environmental crimes, including crime registration, evidence collection, and maintaining the chain of custody. It also emphasizes the importance of using modern forensic science, technology, and best investigative practices, such as interviewing techniques and surveillance. The guide will be available for download on CAG’s website in the second week of January 2025.
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