STATE OF M.P. vs MEDHA PATKAR

The Supreme Court upheld the High Court's order restraining the State of Madhya Pradesh from further land acquisition or construction related to the Indira Sagar and Omkareshwar projects until the Command Area Development plans are scrutinized and approved by the Ministry of Environment and Forest under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, specifically Section 3(2). The Court emphasized the necessity of adhering to environmental clearance processes and mandated rehabilitation and resettlement benefits for affected families under the state's R&R Policy. The appeal was dismissed, affirming the High Court's directives for compliance with environmental regulations and social justice.