Introduction
The National Green Tribunal is a specialised judicial body established for the effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection, forest conservation and enforcement of environmental rights in India. It functions as a dedicated environmental court to ensure sustainable development and ecological justice.
Establishment and Legal Basis
The tribunal was established under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.
It was created to provide a faster and more specialised mechanism than conventional courts for resolving environmental disputes.
Objectives
- Provide speedy environmental justice
- Reduce the burden of environmental cases on higher judiciary
- Ensure implementation of environmental laws
- Uphold the principle of sustainable development
Composition
The tribunal consists of:
- A Chairperson
- Judicial Members
- Expert Members
The inclusion of expert members ensures scientific and technical expertise in environmental decision-making.
Jurisdiction
The NGT has jurisdiction over civil cases relating to substantial environmental questions under key environmental legislations, including:
- Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
- Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
- Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
- Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980
- Biological Diversity Act, 2002
It can provide relief, compensation and restitution for environmental damage.
Principles Applied by the NGT
The tribunal applies internationally recognised environmental principles, including:
- Precautionary Principle
- Polluter Pays Principle
- Principle of Sustainable Development
Structure
The Principal Bench is located in New Delhi.
Regional benches are located in Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata and Chennai to ensure wider accessibility.
Powers
- Can issue directions for environmental restoration
- Can impose penalties and compensation
- Can order closure or regulation of polluting industries
- Appeals against NGT decisions lie directly with the Supreme Court
Significance
The NGT plays a critical role in strengthening environmental governance in India.
It has contributed to improved accountability in cases involving air pollution, river contamination, waste management and forest diversion.
By integrating legal and scientific expertise, it bridges the gap between environmental regulation and enforcement.
Conclusion
The National Green Tribunal represents a significant institutional innovation in India’s environmental jurisprudence.Through specialised adjudication and application of key environmental principles, it enhances access to justice and reinforces the constitutional mandate to protect and improve the environment.
