Natural Resources — Landmark Judgments

Landmark Judgments

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

1987

This landmark case highlighted the judiciary's proactive role in environmental protection. The Supreme Court issued directions to municipalities and industries to prevent…

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. The Supreme Court directed the closure of…

T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad v. Union of India (Forest Case)

1996 onwards

This ongoing series of judgments has profoundly impacted forest governance in India. The Supreme Court expanded the definition of 'forest' to include any area recorded as forest…