Indian Polity & Governance·Landmark Judgments

Climate Conventions — Landmark Judgments

Updated 9 Mar 2026

Landmark Judgments

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

1987

This landmark case, though not directly about climate conventions, established the 'absolute liability' principle for industries engaged in hazardous activities, moving beyond the…

Vellore Citizens' Welfare Forum v. Union of India

1996

This case formally incorporated the 'Precautionary Principle' and the 'Polluter Pays Principle' into Indian environmental jurisprudence, recognizing them as essential features of…

T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad v. Union of India

1997 onwards

Known as the 'Forest Case,' this ongoing litigation has significantly expanded the scope of forest protection in India, interpreting 'forest' broadly to include any area recorded…