A Karnataka-based NGO has requested that Chief Justice of India Surya Kant withdraw remarks critical of environmentalists [1].
The request highlights a growing tension between the judiciary and environmental advocates in India. Because the Constitution of India recognizes environmental protection, the group argues that the head of the judiciary must align his public statements with these legal mandates [1].
Parisarakkagi Naavu, also known as People For Environment, wrote to the Chief Justice in May 2026 [1]. The organization said that the remarks made by the Chief Justice were contrary to the constitutional mandate of the country [1].
"The Constitution of India recognises the importance of environmental protection," the NGO said [1].
In the correspondence, the group explicitly asked for a retraction of the statements. "We request the Hon’ble Chief Justice to withdraw his remarks against environmentalists," the NGO said [1].
However, there are conflicting reports regarding the nature of the comments in question. While the NGO focuses on remarks regarding environmentalists, other reports suggest the Chief Justice was responding to different allegations [2].
Responding to a separate set of accusations, Chief Justice Surya Kant said a particular statement attributed to him was "a vile, brazen and mischievous concoction" [2].
The NGO maintains that the judiciary's rhetoric impacts the ability of activists to protect natural resources within the legal framework of Karnataka and the broader nation [1].
“"The Constitution of India recognises the importance of environmental protection."”
This clash underscores the friction between India's judicial leadership and grassroots environmental activism. By invoking the Constitution, the NGO is attempting to frame the Chief Justice's rhetoric not as a personal opinion, but as a potential contradiction of the state's legal obligations to protect the environment.
