Has the Supreme Court Extended the Stay on Revised Aravalli Hills Definition?
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Synopsis
In a critical development, the Supreme Court has extended the stay on its ruling regarding the Aravalli Hills definition, emphasizing the need for expert input on illegal mining activities. This decision could have significant implications for environmental conservation efforts in the region.
Key Takeaways
- The Supreme Court has extended the stay on the Aravalli Hills definition.
- A committee of experts will be formed to investigate environmental concerns.
- Illegal mining activities are a focus of the court's directives.
- The Rajasthan government is required to prevent unlawful mining in the region.
- The case will be reviewed again in four weeks.
New Delhi, Jan 21 (NationPress) The Supreme Court on Wednesday prolonged the suspension of its previous ruling regarding the definition of the Aravalli Hills and mandated that the current situation remains unchanged until further notice.
A three-judge panel led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant stated that the interim order, which puts on hold the prior judgment detailing a new definition of the Aravalli Hills, will remain in effect.
The panel, which also included Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi, reaffirmed the court's intention to form a specialized committee of experts to aid in evaluating all aspects concerning the Aravalli range.
The Supreme Court indicated that this committee would comprise distinguished environmentalists, scientists, and mining specialists, operating directly under the court's oversight.
The CJI Kant-led panel urged all parties involved to propose qualified experts with relevant expertise for consideration in the formation of this committee.
“Likewise, we have asked the learned Solicitor General and the amicus curiae to recommend names of eminent environmentalists/scientists who possess relevant expertise, ensuring the establishment of a body to thoroughly examine all related matters,” the court noted, emphasizing that this committee will be under its direct control.
Recognizing reports of ongoing illegal mining activities in various locations, the Supreme Court instructed the Rajasthan government to guarantee that such unlawful mining does not occur in the Aravalli region.
The court insisted that appropriate legal action must be taken against individuals engaged in illegal mining.
Additional Solicitor General K.M. Nataraj, representing Rajasthan, assured the CJI Kant-led panel that the state government would promptly ensure the cessation of illegal mining operations.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court directed all parties to submit a detailed note outlining the legal issues involved in this case. The matter is scheduled for further hearing in four weeks.
Point of View
I believe that the Supreme Court's decision to maintain the status quo on the Aravalli Hills definition reflects a commitment to thorough examination and expertise. Ensuring the integrity of the region is essential for sustainable development and environmental preservation.
NationPress
21/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the Aravalli Hills definition?
The Supreme Court has extended the stay on its previous ruling regarding the definition of the Aravalli Hills, maintaining the status quo until further orders.
What actions is the Supreme Court taking to address illegal mining?
The Supreme Court has directed the Rajasthan government to ensure that illegal mining does not occur in the Aravalli region and is forming a committee of experts to examine the situation.
