The Supreme Court has taken suo motu action after observing that the Uttarakhand government remained a “mute spectator” while forest land was being illegally grabbed. The Court ordered a fact-finding inquiry, stopped all construction, and directed the Forest Department to take possession of vacant land.
Justice Abhay S Oka retired from the Supreme Court, receiving heartfelt tributes for his courageous judgments and commitment to civil liberties. His colleagues praised his tireless work ethic, moral integrity, and dedication, even amid personal loss. Justice Oka’s legacy of fairness and environmental advocacy will profoundly impact the judiciary and future judges.
India is the first country to adopt an eco-centric approach over a human-centric one in international jurisprudence. This shift prioritizes the well-being of the entire ecosystem rather than just human needs. Supreme Court judge Justice PS Narasimha highlighted this development at the National Conference on Environment-2025. The move reflects a broader commitment to environmental protection in legal frameworks.