Limitation Period To Challenge Environmental Clearance Commences From Earliest Date Of Its Public Communication: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court held that the limitation period for challenging an Environmental Clearance (EC) begins from the earliest date on which it is publicly communicated. The judgment clarifies that uploading an EC on the official website constitutes sufficient public communication, and ignorance or late discovery by an affected party cannot extend the limitation period. The Court emphasized that environmental governance must remain consistent and transparent, and any further communication (by authorities, project proponents, or state agencies) cannot reset the limitation clock. This ruling sets a significant precedent in environmental litigation by streamlining deadlines and reducing ambiguity. It reinforces the importance of prompt publication of ECs and ensures that challenges are raised within a reasonable time, avoiding prolonged uncertainty for projects. The judgment underscores the need for vigilance among stakeholders involved in environmental matters.