Last Updated on June 18, 2026 5:28 pm by BIZNAMA NEWS
AMN
The Supreme Court today stressed the need to protect forests and natural ecosystems across the country, observing that states like Jharkhand possess rich natural resources that must be preserved. A bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant made the remarks while hearing a petition filed by the Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board challenging an order of the Jharkhand High Court on stone mining and stone crushers near forest areas.
The apex court noted that the distance norms for such activities had been reduced abruptly and said the High Court was already examining the matter. Emphasising the constitutional status of High Courts, the bench said it would not interfere and allowed the petitioner to withdraw the plea.
The High Court had earlier restricted stone mining and stone crusher operations within specified distances from forest boundaries to safeguard the environment.