Delhi High Court Appoints Retired Judge to Lead Forest Protection Committee

In a recent move to bolster efforts towards the conservation of forest areas in the national capital, the Delhi High Court has appointed former high court judge Justice Najmi Waziri to chair an internal departmental committee dedicated to the protection of forests. This decision was made following a hearing on a plea that sought to amend a previous court order from December 21, 2023, which called for the nomination of a retired high court judge to oversee the committee tasked with addressing forest protection issues. The court emphasized the necessity of safeguarding both deemed and protected forest areas, deeming it a critical responsibility of the committee.

Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, presiding over the case, noted the forest department’s ongoing efforts to conserve forests but highlighted the lack of serious cooperation from other land-owning departments in providing essential documents, maps, and records to the committee. In response, the court deemed it fitting to appoint Justice Waziri to ensure that all departments are obligated to collaborate effectively with the committee. The Delhi government has been instructed to provide Justice Waziri with all necessary secretarial facilities and assistance promptly.

The high court’s decision to modify its December 21, 2023 order to include Justice Waziri’s leadership has been met with approval from legal advocates involved in the case. They believe that the involvement of a retired high court judge will instill a greater sense of urgency and cooperation among various departments. The committee, comprising forest conservation officials, is tasked with taking concrete measures to protect, preserve, reclaim, and enhance both protected and deemed forest areas, aiming to prevent further incursion and degradation of these vital ecosystems.

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