In Brief
This case concerns whether the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has authority to direct State Governments to remove unqualified members from State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and to issue appointment guidelines. The Supreme Court held that while environmental protection is a constitutional imperative, the NGT lacks jurisdiction over personnel matters affecting SPCBs, as such appointments do not constitute a 'substantial environmental question' under NGT law. The Court set aside the NGT's order but directed all States to frame professional appointment guidelines within six months. The judgment emphasized that constitutional courts, not statutory tribunals, can issue writs of quo warranto challenging improper SPCB appointments, and encouraged public-spirited individuals to pursue such remedies in High Courts.
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