SC Pushes for Sacred Groves in Rajasthan to Be Declared as Forests and Community Reserves

Keywords: Supreme Court, Rajasthan sacred groves, environmental protection, community reserves, Wildlife Protection Act, biodiversity conservation

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Supreme Court Directs Protection of Sacred Groves in Rajasthan

In a significant order aimed at preserving Rajasthan’s ecologically and culturally significant sacred groves, the Supreme Court has directed the forest department to undertake detailed on-ground mapping and classify these groves as ‘forests.’ The classification, the court emphasized, should not be based on their size or extent but on their ecological and cultural significance to the local communities.

The judgment follows recommendations made in the Central Empowered Committee’s report dated June 1, 2005, which highlighted the need to protect sacred groves as crucial reservoirs of biodiversity.

Delay in Notification Process

The state of Rajasthan had initiated the identification and notification of sacred groves as forests pursuant to earlier Supreme Court orders. However, the apex court expressed concern over the delays in this critical process, stressing the urgency of safeguarding these areas. Sacred groves, deeply revered in Rajasthan’s cultural traditions, hold immense ecological value and require formal recognition to prevent degradation and unauthorized land use changes.

Aman Singh’s Contribution and Judicial Recommendations

The applicant, Aman Singh, submitted a list identifying 100 sacred groves across Rajasthan. The Supreme Court directed the concerned authorities to consider this list during the identification process while noting that it is not exhaustive.

To ensure long-term protection, the court suggested bringing these groves under the purview of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, specifically Section 36-C, which provides for the declaration of ‘community reserves.’ This would grant sacred groves legal protection, recognizing their role in biodiversity conservation and local cultural practices.

Committee Formation to Oversee Compliance

To oversee compliance with the court’s directives, the Supreme Court has ordered the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to collaborate with the Rajasthan Forest Department to constitute a five-member committee. The committee, preferably headed by a retired judge of the Rajasthan High Court, will monitor the identification and protection of sacred groves.

Way Forward

The apex court stressed the importance of involving local communities in this process to ensure the preservation of both the ecological and cultural values of the sacred groves. Additionally, the court urged state authorities to act swiftly to formalize protection measures under the law and prevent further delays.

This landmark judgment underscores the judiciary’s proactive approach to safeguarding India’s natural and cultural heritage. Would you like to explore additional legal frameworks or implications of this order?

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