Devidas Khatri v. Union of India
Case brief
What is this about?
The Tribunal adjudicated environmental violations regarding silica sand mining and washing plants in Uttar Pradesh. It imposed substantial environmental compensation on multiple respondents for illegal mining without valid Consent to Operate (CTO) and illegal ground water extraction. The Court held that Environmental Clearances granted by District Level authorities before 2018 are invalid, ordering mining cessation until re-appraisal. Specific guidelines for silica sand were directed, and medical facilities for silicosis were ordered to be established using collected compensation funds.
What did the court decide?
Ordered multiple respondents to pay environmental compensation ranging from Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 52.27 lakhs for illegal mining and water extraction. Direct prohibition on mining operations under invalid 2017-era ECs. Directed sealing of unauthorized borewells. Ordered CPCB to frame silica sand guidelines and State of UP to provide silicosis healthcare facilities.