Today, On 17th March, The Supreme Court of India ruled that the right to development is as important as the right to a clean environment under fundamental rights. It set aside a National Green Tribunal (NGT) order that had stopped development activities by the Auroville Foundation in Puducherry. The court emphasized the need for a balanced approach between environmental protection and developmental needs.
Today, On 29th January, The Haryana government announced plans to file a case against former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for his statement alleging “poisoning of the Yamuna River.” State Minister Vipul Goyal confirmed the decision on Wednesday, calling the remarks misleading. The government argues that such claims create unnecessary panic and misrepresent the state’s efforts in river management. Legal proceedings are expected to begin soon.
Justice Hrishikesh Roy, born on February 1, 1960, assumed office on September 23, 2019, and will retire on January 31, 2025. He has authored 70 judgments, focusing on diverse legal issues. A reformative judge, he has initiated significant legal programs and films to enhance mediation and support racial discrimination victims.
![[Stubble Burning] "We are Considering Doubling the existing Compensation Matrix, which is Based on the Extent of Land Holdings": Environment Ministry](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/image-13-5.png?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
The Environment Ministry is contemplating revising penalties for stubble burning, potentially increasing fines and compensation for farmers. Discussions with the Law Ministry aim to expedite changes without public consultation, prompted by Supreme Court criticism of past methods. Current regulations impose fines based on land size, amid worsening air quality during stubble burning season.
Today, On 16th October, The Supreme Court criticized Punjab and Haryana for failing to address Delhi’s air pollution crisis, mainly caused by stubble burning. It reprimanded the Commission for Air Quality Management for ineffectiveness and lack of qualified members. The court urged stricter actions against violators and highlighted the ongoing pollution challenges due to multiple factors.
Today, On 1st October, the Supreme Court announced plans for nationwide demolition guidelines, emphasizing that property cannot be destroyed solely due to accusations or convictions. The court will ensure due process is followed, protecting public interest while removing unauthorized structures, regardless of religion. Judicial oversight and notice protocols for demolitions will be established.
The Supreme Court of India dismissed a petition requesting a separate National Judicial Data Grid for tribunals, reiterating that the existing NJDG covers only district courts, high courts, and the Supreme Court. The bench advised the petitioner to contact the Department of Justice regarding their concerns about including tribunals in the existing framework.
Alok Kumar, VHP President, criticized the Law Ministry for publicizing a private judges’ meeting. He clarified that only retired judges attended the closed-door event. The gathering focused on various societal issues, including the Waqf Bill and temple-related matters. The public disclosure raised concerns about event confidentiality. Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal’s participation stirred a Twitter debate.
The Supreme Court today reviewed a challenge to a National Green Tribunal order limiting the number of people in a ‘dhol-tasha’ group for Lord Ganesh idol immersion to 30. Chief Justice Chandrachud noted the urgency, promising to address the issue by 2 PM. This follows Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the Chief Justice’s residence for Ganesh Puja.