EnvironmentThursday, 9 July 2026·The Hindu - Environment
Delhi HC PIL challenges NBWL functioning; SC-NBWL cleared over 97% of diversion proposals
A PIL in the Delhi High Court challenged the NBWL and SC-NBWL, citing over 97% approval of diversion proposals between 2014 and 2026.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On July 8, 2026, 10 retired forest and wildlife officials and conservationists filed a PIL in the Delhi High Court challenging the functioning of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) and its Standing Committee, after alleging that more than 97% of diversion proposals were cleared between 2014 and 2026.
Key specifics
- The petition was filed on July 8, 2026, in the Delhi High Court.
- There were 10 petitioners, led by retired IFS officer Prakriti Srivastava.
- M.K. Ranjitsinh, Prerna Singh Bindra and Debadityo Sinha were among the petitioners.
- The Standing Committee allegedly cleared more than 97% of proposals between 2014 and 2026.
- The NBWL is chaired by the Prime Minister, with the Environment Minister as vice-chairperson, and covers 1,134 protected areas.
Exam lens
Question type: Environment and governance, NBWL, Standing Committee, 97% clearance claim, 1,134 protected areas, Prime Minister as chairperson. TNPSC may ask about Sections 29 and 35(6) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and the role of the apex wildlife board.