Abstract

The judiciary in India has played a pivotal role in interpreting and enforcing environmental laws to address ecological challenges. This paper examines landmark judgments such as the Ganga pollution case and the Vellore Citizen’s Welfare Forum case which have shaped environmental jurisprudence. It explores how the judiciary balances developmental priorities with ecological sustainability emphasizing the need for a rights-based approach to environmental protection. By analyzing the successes and limitations of judicial interventions the study highlights the importance of collaborative efforts between courts policymakers and communities. The paper concludes by recommending strategies to enhance judicial effectiveness in fostering sustainable environmental governance.