A day-long workshop was organized by the Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change here today, to discuss matters relating to the handling of court cases. The workshop was attended by empanelled lawyers of the Ministry from across the country, including those of Supreme Court, High Courts, NGT and CAT.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Prakash Javadekar said that protection of environment is a joint responsibility of all the organs of State. The Minister highlighted the need for presenting the perspective of the Ministry in its true spirit before various courts, which will largely obviate many of the problems encountered in handling of cases. He said that the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change truly believes in transparency and “development without destruction”. He called for greater coordination between the counsels and the officers of Ministry, so that the rationale of various decisions of the Ministry is brought to the notice of Courts in time and cases are decided expeditiously. He exhorted both the counsels and officers to handle cases with passion and efficiency.
Shri P.K. Malhotra, Law Secretary highlighted the need for avoiding unnecessary litigations and need for efficient handling of cases at the notice stage itself. He also highlighted various steps being taken by Government to reduce litigation and use of technology for improving coordination and efficiency in the matter.
Addl. Solicitor General Ms. Pinky Anand lauded the Ministry for moving towards specialized cadre of environmental lawyers which was the need of the hour, in view of the growing importance of environment in the society.
The workshop considered a wide range of issues and its recommendations are expected to improve the handling of matters relating to litigation significantly.
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