UNCOVERING ENVIRONMENTAL CRIMES: A STUDY OF INDIA’S ECOLOGICAL FOOTPRINT AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK

Authors – Subhashini S and Bhagavatula Naga Sai Sriram; Students at School of Law, SASTRA University

Best Citation – Subhashini S & Bhagavatula Naga Sai Sriram, UNCOVERING ENVIRONMENTAL CRIMES: A STUDY OF INDIA’S ECOLOGICAL FOOTPRINT AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK, INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL LEGAL RESEARCH JOURNAL, 1 (1) of 2023, Pg. 100-112, ISBN – 978-81-960677-0-0.

ABSTRACT

Environmental crimes are actions that violate laws and regulations aimed at protecting the environment. These crimes have become increasingly prevalent in India, causing significant damage to the country’s air, water, soil, and wildlife. This paper provides an overview of the various types of environmental crimes in India, including pollution, illegal wildlife trade, deforestation, and mining activities, and analyzes the legislative framework and enforcement mechanisms in place to address them. The paper also examines the challenges in prosecuting environmental crimes and explores the role of civil society in combating these offenses. The findings suggest that while India has a robust legislative framework and enforcement mechanisms, more needs to be done to raise awareness among the public and to address the loopholes in the legal system. The paper recommends that civil society play a more active role in monitoring and reporting environmental crimes and that the government take steps to increase accountability and transparency in the enforcement of environmental laws. The paper concludes that addressing environmental crimes in India is critical to the country’s sustainable development and well-being.

Keywords: Environmental Crimes, India, Legislative Framework, Enforcement Mechanisms, Civil Society