B.L. WADEHRA vs UNION OF INDIA

The Supreme Court emphasized the responsibility of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) under the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act, 1957 and the New Delhi Municipal Council Act, 1994 to ensure a clean environment, as mandated by Articles 21, 48A, and 51A(g) of the Constitution of India. The Court held that the authorities cannot evade their duties citing financial constraints and must take proactive measures to control pollution and manage waste effectively. The petition under Article 32 sought directions for the performance of these statutory duties, highlighting the urgent need for environmental protection in Delhi.