Today, 2nd May, The Supreme Court called for action against officials who permit illegal mining in the Aravalli range. Justices BR Gavai and Abhay S Oka emphasized the need for government intervention to prevent environmental damage. The court highlighted that authorities must take decisive measures to curb such activities.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court, recognizing the imperative of striking a delicate equilibrium between sustainable development and environmental preservation, issued a directive on Thursday urging both the Central and state governments to cease illegal mining activities in the Aravalli region. This call highlights the vital need to uphold ecological integrity while advancing socio-economic progress, highlighting the responsibility of authorities to ensure that natural resources are utilized judiciously and in accordance with legal frameworks.
By emphasizing the cessation of unlawful mining practices, the court highlights its commitment to safeguarding the ecological balance and promoting sustainable development in sensitive ecosystems like the Aravalli area.
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The Bench remarked stating,
“The cessation of illegal mining in the Aravallis is paramount. It is incumbent upon authorities to take necessary measures in this regard. Otherwise, what value do mere skeletal structures in the guise of mountains hold? There must be a harmonious equilibrium between sustainable development and environmental preservation.”
Justices BR Gavai and Abhay S Oka stated that it is the responsibility of governments to ensure that appropriate action is taken against officials who made mistakes.
The highest court currently addressing a case concerning purported illegal mining within the Aravalli range. Back in 2009, the highest court instituted a comprehensive prohibition on the extraction of both major and minor minerals within the environmentally fragile Aravalli hills.
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The government of Rajasthan previously informed the court that the delineation between the Aravalli hills and the Aravalli ranges, particularly regarding mining activities, requires resolution by the apex court.
The Supreme court remarked,
“On initial examination, we believe that if the state believes that mining activities in the Aravalli range also harm environmental interests, the state government has the authority to halt mining activities in that area.”
By directing action against officials involved in allowing illegal mining, the Supreme Court sends a strong message about the importance of upholding environmental laws and protecting precious natural habitats. This decision is likely to have far-reaching implications for the regulation of mining activities not only in the Aravalli region but also in other ecologically sensitive areas across the country.