Topic Details (Notes format)

Right to Environment: Judicial Expansions

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

Rooted in Article 21’s interpretation that life implies a healthy environment. Case law (MC Mehta series) championed public trust doctrine, polluter pays principle, and precautionary principle. The apex court mandates environmental impact assessments and penalizes industries harming ecology. Directive Principles (Article 48A) and Fundamental Duties (Article 51A(g)) reinforce environmental stewardship. The National Green Tribunal further streamlines dispute resolution. Critics fear judicial activism may hamper development if not balanced with socio-economic needs. However, the overarching consensus is that safeguarding environment is intrinsic to constitutional promises of life quality, requiring sustainable governance approaches that integrate ecology with progress.

Practice Questions

Which of the following is a power of the Rajya Sabha?

संसद सदस्यों का वेतन का निर्धारण किसकी स्वीकृति से होता है?

Which of the following is a Fundamental Duty under the Indian Constitution?

What is the maximum number of members in the Legislative Assembly of a state?

भारत में निर्वाचन आयोग का गठन किस आधार पर होता है?

किस संविधान संशोधन में "सौम्य" शब्द की जगह "विनम्र" शब्द का उपयोग किया गया?

नागरिकता की अवधारणा किस अनुच्छेद से शुरू होती है?

न्यायाधीशों की नियुक्ति में किस समिति की सिफारिश ली जाती है?

Which article of the Indian Constitution provides for the protection of rights of minorities?

राज्य सरकारों के अधिकार किस अनुच्छेद में वर्णित हैं?