Key Developments
- Ramesh demanded that the NGT disclose the sealed report submitted on 8 July 2025, arguing that it would reveal serious flaws in the environmental clearances.
- The Bill seeks to implement the Supreme Court’s directions from the Madras Bar Association judgment.
- The Bill proposes a National Tribunals Commission with a retired Supreme Court judge or chief justice as chairperson.
- Ramesh highlighted his legal challenges to the 2021 Act, including its use of a Money Bill to bypass parliamentary scrutiny.
Important Facts
The sealed committee report was submitted to the NGT on 8 July 2025. The Great Nicobar Island Project has been described as “ecologically disastrous”. The Supreme Court’s 2025 judgment mandated an independent commission for tribunal appointments, prompting the current Bill.
Relevance for UPSC
Understanding the NGT’s role and the ongoing tribunal reforms is crucial for GS‑2 topics on environmental governance, institutional independence, and legislative processes. The case also illustrates the interaction between the judiciary, legislature and executive, a classic example for questions on separation of powers and judicial review.
Way Forward
If the NGT releases the report, it could trigger fresh judicial or parliamentary scrutiny of the Great Nicobar approvals. Passage of the Bill would establish the Commission, repealing the 2021 Act and strengthening tribunal independence