New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday kept in abeyance its earlier order dated November 20, which had accepted a uniform definition of the Aravalli hills and ranges. The apex court said the definition, as it currently stands, contains “critical ambiguities” that could potentially weaken environmental safeguards meant to protect the fragile Aravalli ecosystem.
While hearing the matter, the court observed that certain elements of the definition required closer examination, as they may have unintended consequences for environmental regulation. In particular, the bench pointed to concerns surrounding the 100-metre elevation criterion and the provision allowing a gap of up to 500 metres between hill formations. According to the court, these aspects of the definition could result in large portions of the Aravalli range being excluded from legal protection.
The Supreme Court noted that if such criteria are applied without deeper scrutiny, significant areas traditionally considered part of the Aravalli hills and ranges could be stripped of statutory safeguards. This, the court cautioned, may undermine the objective of environmental conservation and open the door to regulatory gaps that could be misused.
In view of these concerns, the apex court said that a more detailed examination of the definition is necessary. It indicated that the issues involved are complex and require expert assessment to ensure that environmental protections are not inadvertently diluted. To address this, the court proposed the constitution of an expert panel that would study the matter in detail and assist the court in arriving at a more robust and unambiguous definition.
The court emphasized that the purpose of keeping the earlier order in abeyance is to prevent any weakening of legal protections for the Aravalli hills while the issues are being examined. It made it clear that the current pause is intended to allow a deeper probe into the implications of the accepted definition, particularly in relation to how it may affect conservation efforts.
Reiterating its position on mining activity in the region, the Supreme Court said that, until further orders, no permission shall be granted for mining in the Aravalli hills and ranges without the prior approval of the court. This restriction will continue to remain in force during the period in which the definition of the Aravallis is under reconsideration.
The bench underlined that the Aravalli range is a sensitive ecological zone and that any regulatory framework governing it must be carefully framed. It said that environmental protection cannot be compromised by definitions that leave room for ambiguity or inconsistent interpretation. The court’s observations reflected its concern that unclear criteria could be used to justify activities that may harm the environment.
By keeping its earlier order in abeyance, the Supreme Court has effectively restored the position that existed prior to November 20, ensuring that no changes flowing from the uniform definition will be implemented for now. The court stressed that this interim measure is necessary to safeguard the region while a more comprehensive and precise approach is developed.
The matter will be taken up for further consideration after the proposed expert panel examines the relevant issues and submits its findings. Until then, the court said, the legal and regulatory status of the Aravalli hills will remain subject to its oversight, with strict controls on activities such as mining.
The Supreme Court’s decision underscores its intent to ensure that environmental protection measures remain strong and effective. By flagging the potential consequences of the existing definition and seeking expert input, the court has signaled that it will adopt a cautious approach before finalizing any framework that governs the Aravalli hills and ranges.
