SHORT ANSWER:
The Supreme Court of India uses Public Interest Litigation (PIL) to address pollution and deforestation by allowing citizens to file cases for environmental protection.
DETAILS:
- PIL enables individuals or groups to seek judicial intervention in matters affecting the public interest, including environmental issues.
- Landmark cases include the M.C. Mehta cases, which addressed air and water pollution and the protection of forests.
- The Court has established principles like the "Polluter Pays Principle" and the "Precautionary Principle" to ensure accountability and preventive measures.
PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable):
- Violators of environmental laws may face penalties, including fines and imprisonment, as per relevant environmental statutes.
SOURCE:
- Constitution of India, Article 32 (Right to Constitutional Remedies) and various environmental laws like the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
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