In a recent development, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a fine of Rs 15,000 on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and the Delhi Forest Department for not submitting a proper report regarding the alleged violation of green norms at the Chief Minister’s residence. The NGT has also directed the Delhi government and its Public Works Department (PWD) to pay fines of Rs 10,000 each for failing to submit their reports as per earlier instructions. The NGT has given them a further weeks to post the desired reports.
1. NGT’s Observations and Penalties: Arvind Kejriwal
The NGT, during a hearing, noted that the joint committee formed to assess the situation had not submitted any report, and the Chief Secretary was also not present digitally. As a consequence, the NGT imposed fines on the concerned authorities for non-compliance with its earlier directives.
2. Alleged Violations and Previous Directives
- The case revolves around allegations of unauthorized construction and cutting of more than 20 trees at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s residence and a nearby property.
- In May last year, the NGT had formed a joint committee to investigate the matter and had given repeated directives to submit a detailed report.
- However, despite the extended timeline, no satisfactory report was provided.
3. N G T’s Response to Continued Non-Compliance
- N G T Chairman Justice Sudhir Agarwal and expert member A. Senthil Nathan expressed disappointment at the continued failure to submit the report.
- Despite repeated directions, the NGT observed that the committee’s report was still not available, leading to penalties on the concerned authorities.
4. Next Hearing and Further Action
- The NGT has scheduled the next hearing for March 4, 2024, in this case.
- It remains to be seen how the Delhi government and PWD respond to the directives and whether they can provide the required reports within the stipulated timeframe.
Conclusion: The N G T’s decision to impose fines underscores the importance of compliance with environmental norms, even by high-profile individuals and government officials. The case serves as a reminder of the need for prompt and thorough investigations into alleged violations to ensure accountability and environmental conservation. As the legal proceedings continue, the focus will be on the upcoming hearing and the actions taken by the concerned authorities to address the N G T’s directives.
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