Under which fundamental rights did the Supreme Court prioritize the right to development through industrialization, ruling that the contested Darkali forest was a man-made plantation, and didn't require clearance under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.?

The correct answer is Articles 14, 19, and 21.

In News

• Supreme Court prioritizes the right to development through industrialization under Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Constitution.

Key Points

• The Supreme Court emphasized that the right to development through industrialization holds priority under Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Constitution.
• The judgment also acknowledged that environmental protection is a fundamental right under Articles 14 and 21, and must strike a balance with industrialization.
• The Court dismissed the National Green Tribunal's decision to halt development at Auroville for lack of environmental clearance, arguing that industrial development also holds a fundamental right.
• The decision also clarified that the alleged Darkali forest was a man-made plantation, not requiring environmental clearance under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.

Additional Information

• Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Indian Constitution
  • Article 14 ensures equality before the law, prohibiting discrimination.
  • Article 19 guarantees protection of certain rights related to freedom of speech, assembly, and movement.
  • Article 21 safeguards the right to life and personal liberty, including the right to a clean environment.
• National Green Tribunal (NGT)
  • NGT is a specialized body for environmental matters, adjudicating issues related to environmental protection and conservation.
• Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980
  • The Act regulates the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes, ensuring protection against deforestation.