• Ajay Kumar
• Sangya Kumari

Abstract: Environmental degradation poses a severe threat to public health in India due to rapid industrialization, urbanization, and weak enforcement of environmental regulations. The judiciary has played a crucial role in strengthening environmental laws and ensuring better public health outcomes through progressive interpretations, landmark judgments, and the expansion of the right to a clean environment under Article 21 of the Constitution. This paper examines the historical development of environmental jurisprudence in India, emphasizing the proactive stance of the Supreme Court and High Courts in holding industries and governments accountable. Landmark cases such as Vellore Citizens’ Welfare Forum v. Union of India (1996) and M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1987) reinforce principles like ‘polluter pays,’ the precautionary principle, and sustainable development. Additionally, the role of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been instrumental in promoting environmental justice and empowering citizens to seek legal remedies. Despite judicial interventions, enforcement remains a challenge due to bureaucratic inefficiencies, political resistance, and inadequate implementation mechanisms. A more collaborative approach involving the judiciary, executive, and legislature is needed for effective environmental governance. Strengthening environmental laws through judicial activism, stricter regulations, and enhanced enforcement can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future. By analyzing key judicial pronouncements and their impact on environmental policies, this paper highlights the judiciary’s indispensable role in safeguarding public health. It concludes with recommendations to improve legal frameworks, enforcement mechanisms, and public participation in environmental decision-making.

Key Words: Environment, Supreme Court, Landmark Judgment, Legal framework, Health etc.

"“The Role of Judiciary in Strengthening Environmental Laws for Better Public Health in India", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 6, page no.i198-i206, June-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2506825.pdf

"“The Role of Judiciary in Strengthening Environmental Laws for Better Public Health in India", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 6, page no. ppi198-i206, June-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2506825.pdf