River Pollution — Legal Precedents

Legal Precedents

M.C. Mehta vs Union of India (Ganga Pollution Case)

1988

This landmark judgment established the Supreme Court's proactive role in environmental protection and mandated the closure of polluting tanneries in Kanpur. The Court recognized…

Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum vs Union of India

1996

This judgment established the 'Polluter Pays' and 'Precautionary Principle' as part of Indian environmental law. The Court ordered the closure of polluting tanneries in Tamil Nadu…

Narmada Bachao Andolan vs Union of India

2000

While primarily about large dams, this judgment addressed river ecosystem protection and the need for comprehensive environmental impact assessment. It established principles for…