ESSAR OIL LTD. vs HALAR UTKARSH SAMITI .

The Supreme Court addressed the legality of laying pipelines through the Jamnagar Marine National Park and Sanctuary, interpreting the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The Court held that the permission granted to Essar Oil Ltd. was not valid as it did not comply with the statutory requirements, thus reinforcing the protection of the sanctuary. The appeals were allowed, and the High Court's decision was set aside, preventing further authorizations for pipeline laying in the protected area.