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

Who is responsible for the appointment of the members of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)?

Which of the following is an essential feature of a federal system?

राज्यों के बीच मतभेदों का समाधान किस प्रावधान के तहत किया जाता है?

संघीय ढांचे में केंद्र और राज्य सरकारों के बीच शक्ति का विभाजन किस सिद्धांत पर आधारित है?

Which of the following is the highest court of appeal in India?

किस संविधान संशोधन ने संसद में महिलाओं के आरक्षण का प्रस्ताव रखा?

What is the maximum strength of the Lok Sabha?

Who among the following was the first woman Speaker of the Lok Sabha?

अनुच्छेद 370 किस राज्य को विशेष दर्जा प्रदान करता था?

उच्च न्यायालयों का गठन किस आधार पर किया जाता है?