SC's Devastating Blow to Mining? Saranda Forest Declared Wildlife Sanctuary, Development HALTED!

Author

Simar Singh | Whalesbook News Team

Detailed Coverage:

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court has mandated the Jharkhand government to notify 31,468.25 hectares of the Saranda Game Sanctuary as the Saranda Wildlife Sanctuary within a strict 90-day timeframe. The apex court stressed the critical need to balance environmental preservation with development needs, highlighting the Saranda forest's status as one of the world's most pristine forest areas, home to diverse mammal and bird species.

The court also acknowledged the centuries-old presence of indigenous communities like the Ho, Munda, and Oraon, whose lives and cultural traditions are deeply intertwined with the forest. It expressed concern that habitat degradation threatens their subsistence. The bench showed considerable displeasure, stating they felt the state government was "taking the court for a ride" due to repeated delays and a shift from its earlier proposed notification plans.

The Supreme Court directed adherence to the original notification of 1968 by the erstwhile unified State of Bihar. Crucially, it decreed that mining would not be permissible within the declared National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, as well as within a one-kilometer radius of its boundaries. This prohibition aims to protect the fragile ecosystem and the rights of forest dwellers.

Advocates and experts hailed the ruling, noting that a specific timeframe for declaration ensures enhanced wildlife and habitat protection under the Wildlife (Protection) Act. They also pointed out the importance of the court's mention of PESA Act and Gram Sabhas, empowering local tribal governance over resources.

Impact: This ruling significantly impacts potential mining and industrial development in the Saranda region. It enforces stricter environmental regulations, potentially deterring large-scale projects and affecting resource-based industries. The decision sets a crucial precedent for balancing economic development with ecological conservation and upholding the rights of indigenous communities. Rating: 7/10

Difficult Terms Explained: * **Saranda Game Sanctuary**: An area previously designated for the protection of wild animals, especially game animals. * **Saranda Wildlife Sanctuary**: A protected area designated under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, offering comprehensive conservation of wildlife and their habitats. * **Pristine forests**: Forests that are in a natural, unspoiled state, with minimal human interference. * **Asiatic Elephant, Four-horned Antelope, Sloth Bear**: Examples of significant mammal species found in the Saranda region, indicating its rich biodiversity. * **Adivasi communities**: Indigenous tribal groups who have lived in forest areas for generations. * **5th Schedule to the Constitution**: A part of the Indian Constitution that provides for special provisions for the administration and control of Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes. * **PESA Act (The Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996)**: A law that empowers tribal self-governance in Scheduled Areas, granting Gram Sabhas rights over natural resources and local decision-making. * **Gram Sabhas**: Village assemblies consisting of all adult members of a village, empowered by PESA to manage local affairs. * **Eco-Sensitive Zone**: An area around protected national parks and wildlife sanctuaries where specific activities are regulated to ensure ecological balance. * **erstwhile unified State of Bihar**: The state of Bihar before its bifurcation to form Jharkhand.