In Brief
This consolidated set of appeals challenged orders by the National Green Tribunal concerning mining operations in Meghalaya that had damaged the area's environment. The State and other parties sought to vacate these orders and claimed rights to coal royalties. The Supreme Court held that natural resources belong to the nation, not just the region, and must be preserved for future generations. Illegal and unscientific mining cannot serve public interest. The Court directed state authorities and Coal India Ltd. to develop appropriate mechanisms for regulating and controlling mining, transport, and mineral disposal, prioritizing environmental protection over revenue claims.
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