PIL: The Catalyst for India's Environmental Jurisprudence

Justice N Kotiswar Singh highlighted the Supreme Court's pioneering role in India's environmental law, crediting the rise of PIL for transformative strides. Speaking at COP30, he discussed judicial activism, Article 21's expansion, and innovative rulings shaping India's green jurisprudence, amidst scientific challenges and foundational cases.

Justice N Kotiswar Singh has credited India's growth in environmental law to the rise of public interest litigation (PIL), attributing judicial activism as a key phase in its development. Addressing the UN Climate Change Conference 2025 in Belem, Brazil, Justice Singh emphasized the Supreme Court's innovative approach to environmental jurisprudence.

Justice Singh noted the period of transition, during which the Supreme Court broadened the interpretation of Article 21, integrating PIL with environmental protection. This legal transformation, he mentioned, was pivotal in establishing India's comprehensive environmental policies through significant rulings, starting in the late 1970s and 1980s.

The judge highlighted challenges faced by the apex court, including the absence of scientific expertise, referencing landmark cases like the Bhopal Gas Tragedy. As the judiciary continues to adapt its role into the 21st century, its contributions to addressing climate change and biodiversity amid infrastructure growth remain instrumental, Singh concluded.

(With inputs from agencies.)