Court finds Rajasthan silent on action against RSPCB officers in Jojari case

The Court is addressing the need for an integrated, coordinated response to environmental degradation and the implementation of interim safeguards pending the scientific demarcation of river corridors.

Who it concerns: Petitioner: In re: 2 Million Lives at Risk, Contamination in Jojari River, Rajasthan (Suo Moto Writ Petition). Respondent: State of Rajasthan. Bench: Not stated in the provided text.

What the court decided

• The Court directed the State of Rajasthan to constitute an 'Integrated Coordination Group' headed by the Chief Secretary within seven days.
• The Court ordered the constitution of an independent River Commission/River Rejuvenation Authority for Rajasthan.
• The Court directed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to intensify investigations in pending criminal cases involving public servants, industrial units, and CETP office-bearers.
• The Court ordered the establishment of an Integrated Public Reporting and Environmental Grievance Redressal Mechanism using a QR Code-based digital platform.
• The Court directed the State to place details of action taken against responsible RSPCB officers before the Committee within three days.
• The Court noted the Committee's recommendation to provisionally reserve 500 metres on both sides of the riverbanks as an interim safeguard, with specific restrictions on construction (100m), pollution (300m), and hazardous industries (500m).
• The Court stated that until the High Flood Line and buffer zones are finally identified, no fresh permissions for industrial, commercial, or residential development within identified river corridors shall be granted.

Also in the document

• The Court observed that the State Government's report was 'totally silent' regarding action taken against responsible RSPCB officers.
• The Court noted that the absence of a scientifically determined High Flood Line had facilitated indiscriminate industrial development and encroachments.
• The Court directed that representations from White Category Industries be considered by the Committee, preferably within seven days.
• The Court specified that the Integrated Coordination Group must present a Comprehensive Resolution Plan to the Court within three weeks of its constitution.