IMPORTANT ROLE OF SUPREME COURT

India has a long history of environmental protection, dating back to ancient Vedic philosophy. In recent decades, the country has taken significant steps to safeguard the environment through the enactment of various laws. Notably, the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution introduced Articles 48-A and 51-A (g), which specifically address environmental protection. An integral player in India's environmental protection efforts is the Indian Supreme Court. The Court has played a pivotal role in interpreting and reinterpreting environmental laws, establishing new institutions and structures, and empowering existing ones. It has proactively addressed issues related to environmental governance, including cases where implementing agencies have failed to fulfill their constitutional and statutory obligations. What sets the Indian Supreme Court apart is its innovative approach to environmental jurisprudence. The Court has entertained petitions on behalf of affected parties and non-living objects, demonstrating its commitment to upholding environmental rights. Additionally, it takes suo motu action, meaning it initiates cases on its own accord when environmental concerns arise.