Former Supreme Court Judge Connects Environmental Degradation to Social Injustice
Former Supreme Court Justice Abhay Shreeniwas Oka delivered a powerful lecture in Chennai on Saturday, highlighting the critical link between environmental pollution and social inequality. Speaking at an event organized by the Rakesh Law Foundation, Justice Oka emphasized that no religion advocates for the degradation of nature, yet water bodies are often polluted in the name of religious practices.
Pollution Disproportionately Affects the Poor and Vulnerable
Justice Oka stressed that environmental degradation has a direct connection to the social justice guaranteed by the Indian Constitution. He pointed out that pollution primarily impacts the poor and weaker sections of society, while affluent individuals often remain unaffected. "Pollution affects only the poor and weaker sections of society and not the affluent ones. That is why it has direct nexus with social justice," he stated.
He explained that rural communities depend on rivers and lakes for drinking water, but pollution caused by urban populations severely compromises these vital sources. This creates an unjust situation where those who contribute least to pollution suffer the most from its consequences.
Criticism of Religious Practices and Call for Scientific Temper
The retired judge specifically addressed the environmental impact of large-scale religious gatherings. He cited the example of the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, where millions of devotees take a 'holy dip' in the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. "We don't understand the amount of pollution caused by the act to the river. If we have a scientific temper, we will not do such acts," Justice Oka remarked.
He also referenced the Maharashtra government's decision to cut over 1,000 trees in Nasik to build accommodation for sadhus attending the 2027 Kumbh Mela. This example underscored his argument about the urgent need to promote scientific thinking and environmental consciousness in society.
Constitutional Framework and Future Generations
The lecture, titled 'Environment - Rights or Duties Under the Constitution,' was part of the Rakesh Endowment Lecture Series held at Valluvar Kottam in Chennai. Justice Oka emphasized that immediate action is necessary to prevent further environmental damage. "If we fail to act immediately to stop degradation of the environment, we will only leave polluted air and water to the generations to come," he warned.
He called for developing a stronger social temper in society, where environmental protection becomes a shared responsibility rather than being sacrificed for short-term religious or developmental goals.
Event Details and Distinguished Participants
The lecture was moderated by N Ram, Director of The Hindu Group Publishing, and presided over by former DMK MP and senior advocate N R Elango. Their participation highlighted the significance of the discussion at the intersection of law, environment, and social justice.
Justice Oka's remarks serve as a crucial reminder that environmental protection is not just an ecological issue but fundamentally a matter of equity and constitutional rights. His call for integrating scientific temper with social responsibility presents a pathway toward more sustainable practices that respect both religious traditions and environmental integrity.
