Supreme Court Questions TNPCB's Delay in Isha Foundation Case

The Supreme Court criticized the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board for delays in challenging a Madras High Court decision that favored Isha Foundation. The court emphasized the need for environmental compliance at the foundation's Coimbatore center. The matter will be revisited post-Shivratri due to ongoing events.

The Supreme Court on Friday addressed the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board's tardiness in bringing a case against Isha Foundation, following a Madras High Court ruling that annulled a showcause notice regarding unauthorized construction of buildings between 2006 and 2014.

Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh criticized the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board's actions as a 'friendly match,' suggesting bureaucratic motives aimed at endorsing the dismissal of the petition. The court stressed the necessity for environmental compliance at the foundation's Velliangiri site.

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Isha Foundation, requested a hearing post-Shivratri due to planned events at the site. This follows the High Court's ruling that Isha Foundation's facilities classify under 'education,' dismissing TNPCB's notice over unapproved constructions.

(With inputs from agencies.)