IndiaThe Supreme Court of India has invalidated a 2021 Office Memorandum issued by the central government that permitted retrospective environmental clearances for projects that began construction without prior approvals. In a unanimous decision, the bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant emphasized that prior environmental clearances are the standard requirement under Indian environmental law. However, the court acknowledged that the government could establish a temporary, limited amnesty program for violations under specific conditions and through proper legal procedures. The ruling clarified that such measures cannot be implemented via executive orders or used as a permanent solution for non-compliance. This decision comes after the court reserved its judgment on several petitions concerning the legality of retrospective environmental clearances.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the Supreme Court's decision without apparent bias toward any political side. It outlines the court's reasoning, the implications of the ruling, and provides context regarding the previous legal proceedings. There is no evident slant in the language or the
