ANUJ JOSHI & ANR vs CHIEF CONSERVATOR OF FORESTS

The Supreme Court addressed a contempt petition under Sections 2(3) and 15 of the Contempt of Court Act, 1971, alleging non-compliance with its earlier directions regarding environmental clearances for hydroelectric projects in Uttarakhand. The Court found no case against two alleged contemnors and dropped proceedings against them, while emphasizing the need for adherence to its previous orders aimed at protecting the environment and managing disaster risks. The Court reiterated that no further environmental or forest clearances should be granted until further orders, thereby upholding its commitment to environmental protection as articulated in its earlier judgment dated 13.08.2013.