Naidu calls for stricter action against pollution law violators

Lauding the Indian higher judiciary for upholding environmental justice over the years, he suggested that “lower courts too must uphold an eco-centric view and keep the best interests of the local populations and biodiversity in their judgments”.

He called for stringent action against violators of pollution laws and strict enforcement of the ‘Polluter Must Pay’ principle.

Naidu stressed on the need for honest implementation of laws, suggesting that “only passing laws is not sufficient, strict action against violators is equally important”. He suggested empowering Pollution Control Boards and local civic bodies with resources, technical expertise and punitive powers to implement environmental laws effectively. Noting that the Constitution empowers Gram Panchayats in matters of water management, soil conservation and forestry, he called for better fund allocation for this purpose. “Effective functioning of grassroot level bodies is critical in handling the climatic challenges of today and the future”, he emphasised.

Calling for serious introspection and bold actions to mitigate the reality of increasing extreme events and diminishing biodiversity, Naidu said, “it is not only the duty of the government to deliberate, but it is the duty of every citizen and human being on earth to save this planet”.

Addressing the gathering, Naidu stressed that India has always been leading the world in climate action. He reiterated India’s commitment to fulfil the ambitious national targets set by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the COP26 Summit in Glasgow, recently.

Highlighting the contributions of the National Green Tribunal, the Vice President noted that with the growing demand for environmental litigation, there is an urgent need for training more legal practitioners in environmental law. In this regard, the Vice President called for making poorer sections aware of their rights and bringing environmental justice closer to the needy. He suggested creating more specialised environmental benches in various parts of the country, if necessary. He appealed to lawmakers to take cognisance of the situation and make legislations that maintain a fine balance between ‘ecology and economy’.

Banwarilal Purohit, Governor of Punjab, Justice Surya Kant, Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai, judges, Supreme Court of India, Justice Antonio Herman Benjamin, Judge, National High Court of Brazil (STJ), Justice Mohammad Rafiq, Chief Justice, High Court of Himachal Pradesh, Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator of India were also present.