Environmental Regulations — Key Judgments
Key Judgments
M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (Ganga Pollution Case)
1987This landmark case led to the Supreme Court issuing extensive directions for controlling pollution in the Ganga river, holding industries responsible for discharging untreated…
Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union of India
1996The Supreme Court applied the 'polluter pays' principle and the 'precautionary principle' to the highly polluting tanneries in Tamil Nadu. It directed the establishment of an…
Indian Council for Enviro-Legal Action v. Union of India (Bichhri Village Case)
1996The Supreme Court held polluting industries strictly liable for environmental damage, even without negligence, and directed them to pay for remediation. This case reinforced the…
Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar
1991The Supreme Court declared the right to a wholesome environment as part of the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Sterlite Copper Smelter Plant (Vedanta) Case, Thoothukudi
2018 (NGT, SC)The NGT initially allowed the plant to reopen, but the Supreme Court later upheld the Tamil Nadu government's decision to close it permanently due to severe environmental…
Goa Foundation v. Union of India
2014The Supreme Court imposed a cap on iron ore mining in Goa, emphasizing the need for sustainable mining practices and the protection of the environment. It highlighted the…
Tehri Bandh Virodhi Sangharsh Samiti v. State of U.P.
1992This case brought to light the environmental and social costs of large-scale development projects like dams. While the dam construction proceeded, the case highlighted the need…
Almitra H. Patel v. Union of India
1998This case dealt with the issue of solid waste management in urban areas. The Supreme Court issued directions for scientific disposal of municipal solid waste, leading to the…