Elephant habitats, corridors being systematically destroyed, will to preserve absent: Ramesh
A bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana made it clear that States cannot construct obstacles in the pathways of elephants to prevent loss of crops and livelihoods
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh expressed concern on August 18, 2026, over the systematic destruction of elephant habitats and corridors due to mining and other projects. The Congress general secretary in-charge of communications stated that the will to protect and preserve is notably absent. The Supreme Court had directed the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change to conduct a nationwide survey to check for any obstacles or blockades in elephant corridors, deeming such actions unacceptable.
The court emphasized that states cannot obstruct the natural pathways of elephants, which often traverse long distances across state lines. Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana affirmed that no state can erect obstacles in the way of wildlife, as elephants have a habit of traveling vast distances. The court barred the use of fireballs, spikes, or any coercive measures against elephants and directed the central government to submit a comprehensive survey report within six weeks, including any initiatives taken to prevent such obstructions.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu - Sci-Tech's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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