The 42nd Amendment of the Constitution (1976) having two article- 48 A and 51 a with regards to the protection of environment were inserted. Article 48A states the state shall endeavor to protect and improve the environment and safeguard the forests and wild life of the country. To Article 51 -A it is duty of every citizen to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wild life.
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Article- part IV-A of the constitution cannot be enforced by court of law. Article-21 of the constitution guarantees the fundamental rights to life and personal liberty of all persons in India and in enforceable in a country law. Nobody shall be deprived of his life and personal liberty. Article 21 -a large number of activities which damage the environment including lack of underground drainage, encroachment of public parks, mining quarries etc., have been interpreted by the Supreme Court. There is a provision of fines for noise polluters. Courts also accepted petitions relating to environment protection under article -32.
Wild life protection Act 1972: Protection of wild life is needed for the protection of environment. This act has been enacted by parliament with a view to protect wild animals and birds. The wild life advisory board is to advice the state government, in the selection of areas for sanctuaries, national parks and closed areas, in formulation of policy for protection and conservation of wild life and specified plants, birds, animals.
ADVERTISEMENTS:
The administration of sanctuaries, national parks, zoos etc, are carried out as per provisions of the Act to help of Chief wild life warden.