COLLECTOR OF CENT.EXCISE,KANPUR vs M/S.MATADOR FOAM

The Supreme Court addressed the issue of hazardous waste management, specifically concerning 133 containers of hazardous waste oil imported under the guise of lubricating oil. The Court held that the importers illegally imported hazardous waste, violating environmental regulations, and directed them to show cause for re-export or destruction of the goods. Additionally, the Court emphasized the 'polluter pays' principle, requiring importers to compensate for the costs incurred by the Ministry of Environment and Forests for laboratory testing, as per the Hazardous Waste Rules, 1989 and Basel Convention.