SC Rejects PIL On Eco-Friendly Disposal Of Lawyers’ Bands, Questions Scope

The Supreme Court has declined a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that sought a uniform, environmentally friendly method to collect and dispose of used advocates’ white bands (worn under BCI Rules). The petitioner argued that synthetic bands, often discarded daily, pose a major environmental burden since they are non-biodegradable. The Court, however, resisted the call for sweeping regulation, with a Bench asking pointedly whether their remit should extend to “monitor how handkerchiefs are used” or regulate general waste in villages. The judges refused to issue any directive to the Bar Council of India (BCI) or government agencies, indicating that such matters go beyond judicial oversight into policy territory. The Court’s refusal emphasizes the separation of powers while acknowledging the dignity and environmental concerns raised by the petition.