SC Puts Revised Aravalli Definition On Hold; Seeks Fresh Review

A three-judge Bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, on Monday kept in abeyance its earlier directions on redefining the Aravalli Hills.

The court said it needs further clarification before enforcing the recommendations.

The Bench, comprising Justices JK Maheshwari and AG Masih, noted that people were widely misconstruing both the expert committee’s report and the court’s own observations.

This, it said, had led to confusion and concerns over environmental safeguards and mining activities in the ecologically sensitive Aravalli range.

The apex court issued notice in the suo motu writ petition titled ‘Definition of Aravalli Hills and Ranges and Ancillary Issues’. The matter has been made returnable on January 21.

In its order, the court stated that both the committee’s recommendations and its judicial directions will remain in abeyance. This will continue until a fresh expert committee is constituted.

The CJI-led Bench indicated it was considering forming a new high-powered expert committee.

The committee will holistically examine the findings and recommendations of earlier panels on the Aravalli range.

The proposed panel will assess whether authorities can permit regulated mining in the 500-metre gaps between hills. It will also examine the structural and environmental safeguards required.

The panel aims to ensure that ecological continuity is not compromised.

Questions Raised on Elevation Criteria

The Supreme Court stressed the need to review the 100-metre elevation threshold. It questioned whether the proposed benchmark is scientifically sound.

The court flagged the need for a detailed geological and ecological inquiry. It said any final definition could have long-term environmental consequences.

During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta addressed the Bench. He said authorities have directed Aravalli states to halt all mining activities.

Additionally, he added that no fresh mining licences are being granted in the region.

The court also sought assistance from Attorney General R Venkataramani. It requested senior advocate PS Parmeswar to assist in the matter.

The issue gained prominence after the Supreme Court, in an order dated November 20, ruled that only landforms with an elevation of 100 metres or more would qualify as Aravalli hills.

This triggered widespread concern over the protection of the fragile ecosystem.

Following protests across several districts of Rajasthan, including Udaipur, Jodhpur, Sikar and Alwar, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change imposed a complete ban on the grant of new mining leases across the Aravalli landscape.

The ministry also tasked the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) with identifying additional no-mining zones and preparing a comprehensive Management Plan for Sustainable Mining for the entire range.

The Supreme Court’s latest order seeks to strike a balance between environmental protection and regulatory clarity, with a fresh expert review now expected to guide future decisions.

Also Read: Supreme Court To Hear Suo Motu Case Today On Aravalli Hills Protection