CJI BR Gavai stated that he did not alter his judgment in the retrospective environmental-clearance case even after reading Justice Ujjal Bhuyan’s sharp dissent. The Supreme Court’s majority recalled an earlier ruling, while Justice Bhuyan warned the decision weakens core environmental principles.
Justice Vikram Nath emphasized the urgent need for stricter pollution regulations and investments in clean technologies during the National Conference on Environment 2025. He articulated concerns over high pollution levels affecting children’s health in New Delhi, called for collective action, and underlined the judiciary’s role in promoting environmental rights and sustainable development.
On Wednesday (24th April): The National Green Tribunal (NGT) criticized the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for not taking action against environmental offenders, stating that it encourages violations of environmental laws. The NGT emphasized that revenue from environmental crimes qualifies as ‘proceeds of crime’ under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), directing the compensation to be used for environmental restoration in affected areas.