The National Green Tribunal (NGT)

 


The National Green Tribunal (NGT)

Origin of National Green Tribunal:

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was established in India as a response to the Rio de Janeiro Summit during the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in 1992. India pledged to provide judicial and administrative remedies for victims of pollution and environmental damage. The NGT, created under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, is unique—it’s only the third such system globally, following Australia and New Zealand.

Justice Lokeshwar Singh served as the first chairman, and the current chairman is Justice Adarsh Kumar Goyal. The NGT comprises expert and judicial members, with a sanctioned strength of ten each. Its headquarters are in Delhi, and it operates zonal branches in Bhopal, Kolkata, Pune, and Chennai.

The Southern branch, established in 2012, operates in Chennai, with Justice M Chokkalingam as the judicial member and Mr R Nagendran as the expert member.

Role and Functions of NGT:

1. Adjudication of Environmental Disputes:

o   NGT handles cases related to environmental protection, conservation of forests, and natural resources.

o   Provides effective and expeditious resolution of these matters.

2. Enforcement of Legal Rights:

o   Ensures implementation of environmental laws and regulations.

o   Promotes strict and effective enforcement.

3. Alternative Dispute Resolution:

o   NGT offers a specialized forum for resolving environmental disputes.

o   Reduces the burden on higher courts.

4. Speedy Justice:

o   Aims for prompt disposal of cases (within six months).

o   Addresses environmental issues promptly.

5. Inspired by Article 21:

o   Draws inspiration from Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, recognizing the right to a healthy environment.

6. Multi-Disciplinary Approach:

o   Considers various aspects related to the environment.

o   Combines legal expertise with environmental knowledge.

7. Sustainable Development:

o   Promotes sustainable practices.

o   Safeguards the environment for future generations.

8. Relief and Compensation:

o   Provides relief and compensation for damages caused by environmental harm.

9. Less Formal Proceedings:

o   NGT proceedings are accessible and efficient.

o   Less formal than regular courts.

10.   Contributing to Environmental Jurisprudence:

o   NGT decisions shape environmental law.

o   Sets precedents for future cases.

Conclusion:

The National Green Tribunal (NGT), established in 2010, is a crucial institution for environmental protection in India. Guided by the principles of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, it emphasizes the right to a healthy environment. The NGT has significantly contributed to safeguarding natural resources and ensuring sustainable development. By providing a specialized forum for resolving environmental disputes, it has become a beacon of hope for those seeking justice in matters related to pollution, wildlife, and conservation. Let’s continue to support the NGT’s vital role in preserving our planet for future generations.

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