Important Case Laws on Environmental Law
Important Case Laws on Environmental Law
1. M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1987) — Oleum Gas Leak Case
Established strict liability for hazardous industries.
Courts held industries absolutely liable for damages caused by accidents.
Key principle: “Polluter Pays” and “Absolute Liability.”
2. M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1988) — Taj Trapezium Case
Directed industries around the Taj Mahal to reduce pollution.
Introduced eco-sensitive zones to protect heritage sites.
3. M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1986) — Ganga Pollution Case
Court ordered closure of polluting tanneries and industries affecting the Ganges.
Directed measures for cleaning and protection of the river.
4. Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar (1991)
Held that the right to a pollution-free environment is part of the fundamental right to life (Article 21).
Expanded the scope of environmental protection under the Constitution.
5. Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union of India (1996)
Landmark case where the Precautionary Principle and Polluter Pays Principle were recognized and applied.
Emphasized sustainable development.
6. Rural Litigation and Entitlement Kendra v. State of UP (1985) — Nainital Case
Protected forest lands and wildlife.
Restricted limestone mining in ecologically sensitive areas.
7. Indian Council for Enviro-Legal Action v. Union of India (1996)
Affirmed strict liability of industries causing environmental damage.
Ordered industries to pay for restoration of damaged environment.
8. T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad v. Union of India (1995) — Forest Conservation Case
Enforced forest conservation laws.
Courts banned illegal felling and encroachments in forests.
9. S. Jagannath v. Union of India (1997) — Marine Fishing Case
Regulated fishing practices to prevent ecological damage.
Protected marine life and fishing communities.
10. M.C. Mehta v. Kamal Nath (1997)
Held a government minister personally liable for environmental violations.
Reinforced accountability in environmental matters.
Summary Table
| Case | Key Principle/Outcome |
|---|---|
| M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1987) | Strict & absolute liability; Polluter Pays |
| Taj Trapezium Case (1988) | Pollution control near heritage sites |
| Ganga Pollution Case (1986) | Closure of polluting industries |
| Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar (1991) | Right to clean environment = Fundamental Right |
| Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum (1996) | Precautionary & Polluter Pays Principles |
| Rural Litigation & Entitlement Kendra (1985) | Forest & wildlife protection |
| Indian Council for Enviro-Legal Action (1996) | Industry liability & environment restoration |
| T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad (1995) | Forest conservation enforcement |
| S. Jagannath v. Union of India (1997) | Marine ecosystem protection |
| M.C. Mehta v. Kamal Nath (1997) | Personal liability for environmental harm |
Conclusion
These landmark judgments have collectively:
Strengthened environmental protection in India.
Developed key principles like polluter pays, precautionary approach, and absolute liability.
Expanded constitutional rights to include environmental concerns.
Promoted sustainable development and government accountability.
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