Punjab Government Reaffirms Stance on LIGH Policy Before National Green Tribunal
The Punjab government has once again assured the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that it will not grant any allotments or permissions under its controversial 'Policy for Approval/Regularisation of Low Impact Green Habitats (LIGH), 2025' until the next scheduled hearing on July 21, 2026. This commitment, which was initially submitted to the NGT on December 18, 2025, was formally reaffirmed by the state's chief secretary and principal secretary of housing and urban development through their legal counsel during a hearing on April 9, 2026.
Background of the Legal Challenge
The state government had previously informed the tribunal that no allotments had been made or permissions granted under the impugned notification, and it pledged to maintain the status quo. The LIGH policy, which was officially notified on November 20, 2025, has faced significant opposition from environmental groups. According to the Council of Engineers (COE), the policy permits the construction of permanent structures, including those for commercial use, on land that has been delisted from the Punjab Land Preservation Act.
Challenging the legality of this policy, the COE filed a petition with the NGT seeking its quashing. The council argues that the policy is illegal and violates the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. In its petition, the COE cites a Supreme Court order from September 9, 2025, which stipulated that such land should only be used for agriculture and livelihood purposes. The council contends that the LIGH policy directly contradicts these judicial directions, thereby undermining environmental protections.
Recent Developments and Allegations
Representatives from the Council of Engineers have pointed out that the Punjab government has yet to file its official reply to the petition, despite earlier deadlines set by the tribunal. Additionally, the COE has raised concerns about amendments made to the policy on April 7, 2026. These amendments removed specific provisions related to commercial use and eco-tourism but still allow for up to 15% construction on the affected land.
The COE alleges that these changes reflect "malafide intent" and are merely a "cosmetic exercise" designed to favor private interests. They argue that the amendments do not adequately address the core issues, as guidelines from the Ministry of Environment and the Eco-Tourism Policy of 2018 restrict such land use and prohibit the construction of permanent structures. The council maintains that the policy, even in its amended form, continues to pose a threat to environmental conservation efforts in the region.
Implications and Next Steps
The ongoing legal battle highlights the tension between development initiatives and environmental preservation in Punjab. The state government's repeated assurances to the NGT indicate a cautious approach, possibly in response to the strong opposition from environmental advocates. The next hearing on July 21, 2026, will be crucial in determining the future of the LIGH policy and its impact on land use regulations in the state.
As the case progresses, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the tribunal's decisions, which could set important precedents for similar policies across India. The outcome may influence how states balance economic development with the need to protect natural resources and adhere to national environmental laws.
