01 March 2024 Environment Protection >> Environmental Law  

The Delhi High Court has issued an order compelling the Army unit stationed within Delhi's Central Ridge to file an affidavit addressing allegations of deforestation. This action follows the presentation of inspection reports by Amicus Curiae (friends of the court) that allege a breach of the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act, 1994.

The Army, represented by Mr. Kirtiman Singh, vehemently denies the accusations and confirms submitting a response to a show cause notice issued by the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) pursuant to the Act. However, Mr. Gautam Narayan, another Amicus Curiae, urged the Court to issue a mandatory injunction directing the Army to undertake afforestation efforts to mitigate any potential environmental harm.

Further complicating the matter, Ms. Kaur, a separate Amicus Curiae, presented a distinct report outlining extensive deforestation within the Central Ridge. In response to these seemingly contradictory accounts, the Court has directed the Army to file an affidavit addressing the contents of both inspection reports.

To ensure the preservation of the Central Ridge, the Court has imposed an interim stay order prohibiting any further deforestation activities within the protected area.

The GNCTD has been directed to render a final decision on the show cause notice issued to the Army unit within a period of one week. Additionally, the GNCTD must file a status report encompassing the Court's order. The matter will be heard again on the pre-determined date of March 15, 2024.

  Delhi Preservation of Trees Act, 1994