Environment & Ecology·Environmental Cases
Environmental Pollution — Environmental Cases
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Version 1Updated 9 Mar 2026
Environmental Cases
M.C. Mehta vs. Union of India (Ganga Pollution Case)
1987This landmark case highlighted the Supreme Court's proactive role in environmental protection. M.C. Mehta, a public interest lawyer, filed a writ petition against industries…
Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum vs. Union of India
1996This case dealt with severe groundwater pollution caused by tanneries in Tamil Nadu. The Supreme Court reiterated the 'polluter pays principle' and the 'precautionary principle'…
Subhash Kumar vs. State of Bihar
1991In this case, the Supreme Court explicitly declared that the 'right to life' under Article 21 includes the right to the enjoyment of pollution-free water and air. This judgment…