[Urbanstudy] ‘People should sue govt for not controlling pollution’

[Vinay Baindur]

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/people-should-sue-govt-for-not-controlling-pollution/article7860811.ece




‘People should sue govt for not controlling pollution’


   - AKANKSHA JAIN <http://www.thehindu.com/profile/author/akanksha-jain/>



*Environmental Lawyer and Activist M.C. Mehta talks to The Hindu about who
should be held responsible for the alarming rise in pollution levels.*

*1. Do you think the time has come when people should sue the government
for not doing enough to control pollution?*

A. It is the question of environment. Natural resources of the country like
air, water etc are gifts of nature to human beings. The system is so
lethargic. Pollution-free environment is the joint responsibility of the
government and the citizens. When the government fails, people can sue the
government.

*2. If it is a joint responsibility, how can people sue government as
people are also engaged in practices like using private vehicles rather
than public transport?*

A. We are treated as a third world country. The technology companies bring
here is not as in the West. We are still on Euro IV [Europe is on Euro VI].
People should sue the system for giving in to these companies.

It is a joint responsibility but people are being forced to use cars
because the public transport system is not efficient. Also, there is VIP
culture in India. In the West, even Members of Parliament move about in the
Metro but here they need many cars. Air is not manufactured by the
politicians of this country.

*3. But are the people not guilty themselves of adding to the pollution?*

A. Government is creating chaos. It has spoilt people's habit by increasing
consumerism. Why is the Centre so reluctant on vehicle quota? Why is it not
possible here when it can work in China, Singapore etc.

*4. In what ways can people seek damages?*

A. People who are suffering from diseases caused by pollution should sue
the government. They should get free treatment. A person falls ill but the
entire family suffers and should claim compensation for such trauma.

*5. Have you ever come across any case here of government being sued for
pollution?*

A. No but I receive phone calls from people who are suffering due to
pollution and are helpless.
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