The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday pulled up 'so-called environmentalists' for opposing development projects across the country. The court remarked that people approaching the courts should not seek to stall everything, as it adversely affects the nation's progress.
A bench comprising Justices Ashok Bhushan and R. Subhash Reddy made the observation while hearing a matter related to environmental clearances. The court said that while environmental concerns are important, they cannot be used as a tool to block every development initiative.
'Show us one development project they welcomed,' the bench asked, referring to those who file petitions against infrastructure and industrial projects. The court emphasized that sustainable development requires a balance between ecology and economic growth.
The remarks came during a hearing on a plea challenging environmental clearance for a project. The court noted that many petitions are filed not out of genuine environmental concern but to stall projects, causing delays and cost overruns.
The Supreme Court reiterated that development and environment protection must go hand in hand. It urged petitioners to adopt a constructive approach rather than opposing projects indiscriminately. The court also highlighted that the country's progress depends on timely execution of projects, which should not be hampered by frivolous litigation.
The judgment is expected to set a precedent for future cases involving environmental clearances and development projects.
