The Supreme Court has agreed to examine whether the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has the power to take cognisance of a matter “suo motu” (on its own).
NGT is a specialized body equipped with the necessary expertise to handle environmental disputes involving multi-disciplinary issues.
It was established in 2010 under National Green Tribunal Act 2010.
It has the same powers as are vested in a civil court under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908.
It has the original jurisdiction over all civil cases where a substantial question relating to environment is concerned.