RURAL LITIGATION&ENTITLEMENT KENDRA vs STATE OF U.P. & ORS. ETC.

The Supreme Court addressed public interest litigation concerning unauthorized mining in the Mussoorie-Dehradun belt, emphasizing the need for ecological preservation under Article 32 of the Constitution of India. The Court established that mining activities must comply with the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, and directed the closure of certain category mines based on the Bhargava Committee's recommendations. The Court held that mining lessees operating without valid licenses or under expired court orders would not benefit from such positions, thereby reinforcing the imperative of environmental protection.