On July 19, Chief Justice of India B R Gavai and Supreme Court judges participated in Van Mahotsav 2025, promoting environmental conservation through the ‘Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam’ campaign. CJI Gavai planted a tree in memory of his mother, emphasizing sustainable development and the judiciary’s role in protecting the environment.
Justice Abhay S Oka emphasized the vital link between environmental and social justice during his speech at the SILF Climate Change Conference 2025. He highlighted how pollution disproportionately impacts the poor and stressed that protecting the environment is essential for human dignity and health, urging support for environmental advocacy in India.
On May 28, 2025, the Supreme Court of India upheld the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s directives for constructing a verandah and using green paver blocks at the Chandigarh Capitol Complex, emphasizing sustainable development. This decision addressed parking issues while ensuring preservation of the UNESCO World Heritage site’s integrity and ecological balance.
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.
The Kerala High Court has expressed concern over the Wayanad landslides, attributing them to human “apathy and greed.” The court initiated a PIL to prompt the state government to reconsider its approach to sustainable development. It plans to review policies on natural resource exploitation, environmental preservation, disaster management, and sustainable development, emphasizing the need for immediate corrective action.
The Supreme Court has stayed a hotel project in Uttarakhand’s Bhimtal-Mukteshwar area to protect the forest. This decision follows concerns about the state government’s measures to control forest fires. The Court also directed the project proponent to respond to the petition within six weeks. The Indian Army and Air Force are assisting in firefighting efforts.