LEGAL ASPECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION IN INDIA

Environmental protection is a major concern in India due to rapid industrialisation, urbanisation, and population growth. Constitutional mandates, statutory enactments, judicial interventions, and international obligations have all contributed to the development of the legal framework for environmental protection. This paper investigates the legislative framework, judicial interpretations, enforcement mechanisms, and challenges of enforcing environmental laws in India. The research focusses on significant statutes such as the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986, the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981, and the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1974, as well as the judiciary's role in strengthening environmental jurisprudence. The study emphasises the importance of stringent enforcement and policy reforms for effective environmental governance.