National Green Tribunal (NGT)

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Why in News?

The National Green Tribunal issued a notice to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and other authorities over alleged violation of construction bans during severe air pollution, highlighting health impacts on vulnerable groups, including a newborn.

Description:

About National Green Tribunal (NGT):

  • Nature: Statutory, specialised quasi-judicial body
  • Established under: National Green Tribunal Act, 2010
  • Purpose: Expeditious adjudication of civil cases relating to environmental protection, forests, and natural resources
  • Global significance: India is the 3rd country (after Australia, New Zealand) to establish a dedicated environmental tribunal

Composition & Qualifications:

  • Chairperson: Supreme Court Judge / Chief Justice of High Court
  • Judicial Members: Minimum 10 – Maximum 20. SC Judge / HC Judge (serving or retired)
  • Expert Member: Minimum 10 – Maximum 20. Relevant technical degree + 15 years experience (including 5 years practical work in environment/forests)
  • Chairperson may invite subject experts for specific cases

Appointment & Tenure:

  • Chairperson: Appointed by Central Government in consultation with CJI
  • Members: Appointed via Selection Committee
  • Tenure: 5 years or 65 years, whichever earlier
  • Reappointment: Not permitted

Benches:

  • Principal Bench: New Delhi (Northern Zone)
  • Regional Benches (4): Bhopal – Central, Pune – Western, Chennai – Southern, Kolkata – Eastern
  • Circuit Benches: Temporary sittings for wider accessibility (e.g., Bengaluru, Hyderabad)

Jurisdiction & Powers:

  • Covers civil cases involving “substantial question relating to environment”
  • Natural Justice (not bound by CPC)
  • Flexible Evidence Rules (not strictly bound by Evidence Act)
  • Laws under Schedule I: Water Act, 1974, Water Cess Act, 1977, Forest Conservation Act, 1980, Air Act, 1981, Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991, Biological Diversity Act, 2002

Not empowered under:

  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
  • Forest Rights Act, 2006
  • State forest/tree laws

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