GK Question

polity hard true_false

Indian courts have begun hearing 'climate litigation' cases where citizens invoke Fundamental Rights (Articles 14, 19, 21) to challenge government policies alleged to inadequately address climate change, recognizing right to a healthy environment as part of Article 21.

  1. True
  2. False

Answer: True

Climate litigation evolution in India: (a) Legal basis: Article 21 (right to life) interpreted to include healthy environment (Subhash Kumar, MC Mehta cases); Article 48A (DPSP) directs State to protect environment, (b) Emerging cases: (i) Challenges to coal mining approvals, vehicular emission norms, coastal regulation violations, (ii) Claims based on intergenerational equity, precautionary principle, sustainable development, (iii) Vulnerable groups: Coastal communities, farmers, tribal populations disproportionately affected, (c) Judicial approach: Generally defer to executive policy domain but require: (i) Compliance with environmental laws, (ii) Scientific basis for decisions, (iii) Public consultation, (iv) Consideration of vulnerable groups, (d) Global context: Aligns with Paris Agreement, SDGs; India's climate commitments (NDCs) inform judicial review. Illustrates rights evolution: adapting constitutional framework to global challenges like climate change.

Topic Environmental Jurisprudence - Climate Litigation Trends
Exam Relevance Climate litigation and environmental rights critical for UPSC Mains and Judiciary exams