The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was set up in 2010 to act as a highly specialized, fast-track environmental court composed of both judicial and scientific experts.
1. Composition of the NGT
To ensure balanced scientific and legal decision-making, the NGT consists of:
- A Chairperson (a retired Supreme Court Judge or a retired Chief Justice of a High Court).
- Judicial Members (10 to 20 judges with extensive High Court experience).
- Expert Members (10 to 20 scientific experts holding Doctorates or master's degrees in environmental science, with years of practical experience).
2. Jurisdiction & Powers: Sections 14 & 15
- Substantial Question (Section 14): The NGT has jurisdiction over all civil cases where a substantial question relating to the environment is involved, and which arise out of the implementation of core acts (Water Act, Air Act, Forest Act, EPA, etc.).
- Relief & Restitution (Section 15): The NGT can order relief, compensation to victims, and direct the restitution of property or the restoration of the damaged environment.
- Application of Principles (Section 20): While deciding cases, the NGT is statutorily bound to apply the Precautionary Principle, the Polluter Pays Principle, and the concept of Sustainable Development.
- 6-Month Fast-Track: Under the NGT Act, the tribunal is mandated to make every effort to dispose of cases within six months of filing.