iv. National Green Tribunal
The National Green Tribunal was established by the National Green Tribunal Act of 2010 to effectively and promptly handle cases involving environmental protection, and the conservation of forests and other natural resources.
- It also deals with the enforcement of any environmental legal rights and the provision of relief and compensation for environmental damages to people and property, as well as for matters related to or incidental to those cases.
- It is an expert body with the knowledge needed to handle environmental disputes involving many disciplinary issues.
- Major features
- The Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 is not a requirement for the NGT to follow; instead, it will act by natural justice principles.
- The Indian Evidence Act, of 1872’s rules of evidence are not binding on NGT either.
- Conservation groups will find it easier to present facts and issues before the NGT (as opposed to going before a court), including pointing out technical problems with a project or suggesting alternatives that could lessen environmental damage but have not been examined.
- The NGT will use the precautionary principle, the polluter pays principle, and the principles of sustainable development when passing orders, decisions, and awards. However, it should be noted that the NGT has the authority to impose fees, including lost benefits as a result of any temporary injunction if it determines that a claim is untrue.