Environmental Pollution — Landmark Judgments

Landmark Judgments

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

1987

This 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

1996

This 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

1991

In 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…