Jairam Ramesh Challenges ‘Ex Post Facto’ Environmental Clearances in Supreme Court

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh on Friday said he has filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the grant of “ex post facto” environmental clearances, contending that such approvals are illegal under existing law.

Ramesh asserted that environmental clearances granted retrospectively undermine the rule of law and violate established environmental protection norms. He argued that approvals issued after projects have already commenced defeat the very purpose of the environmental impact assessment process.

The Congress leader maintained that allowing post facto clearances weakens regulatory oversight and sets a dangerous precedent by legitimising violations after the fact.

The matter is expected to come up for consideration before the apex court in due course.