In Brief
This landmark environmental pollution case addressed severe air pollution in the NCR region caused by stubble burning and industrial activities. The Court held that such pollution violates citizens' right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution, as scientific evidence showed it reduces life expectancy and makes areas uninhabitable. The Court directed all three NCR States and Delhi to immediately halt stubble fires, shut down polluting industries operating against environmental norms, and implement a comprehensive prevention roadmap within three weeks. Multi-level coordination from village to state level was mandated, along with public awareness campaigns. An action-taken report was required within four weeks."
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