The BRICS TimesCJI Suryakant stated that it must also be determined if 1,048 hills out of 12,081 meeting the 100-meter height criterion is factually and scientifically accurate.
SC Puts a Hold on Earlier Order
The Supreme Court heard the matter on Monday (December 29, 2025). This case relates to the definition of Aravalli Hills and the range. The court has now put a stay on its own previous order. Chief Justice Suryakant noted an essential consideration. He asked if controlled mining should be permitted in the 500-meter gaps (intervals). If allowed, he questioned what precise structural standards would prevent ecological continuity from being affected.
Suo Motu Action and Bench Details
The Supreme Court took suo motu cognizance of this issue. It arose due to the ongoing dispute over the Aravalli Hills definition. The bench includes CJI Suryakant, Justice JK Maheshwari, and Justice Augustine George Masih. The court has temporarily halted the operation of its own prior ruling.
Background of the Earlier Ruling
On November 20, the Supreme Court had approved a uniform, scientific definition. This definition was for the Aravalli Hills and range. At the same time, it restricted new mining leases. This ban was until an expert report covered the Aravalli area. This region spans Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.
Need for Scientific and Geological Inquiry
The CJI emphasized the need to determine the factual accuracy. It must be checked whether 1,048 hills out of 12,081 meet the 100-meter height norm. He also stressed the importance of deciding if a geological survey is necessary for this verification.
Proposal for High-Level Expert Committee
CJI Suryakant proposed forming a high-level expert committee. This committee would assess reports for a comprehensive test of the questions raised. He added that detailed identification of terrains excluded from the Aravalli region should happen. It also needs to be checked if this exclusion increases degradation risk. This must not compromise the mountain range’s ecological integrity.
Court Directs Status Quo and Issues Notice
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Center, spoke next. He said the courts must first define the scope of the committee’s investigation. CJI Suryakant said the court finds it necessary to defer the committee’s recommendations. The court also deferred its own directions for the time being. This stay remains effective until the committee is formed. A notice has been issued for January 21. SG Tushar Mehta confirmed that states received notices. These notices bar them from any further mining activity.
Petitioner and Environmental Concerns
Former Forest Conservation Officer R P Balwan filed a petition. R P Balwan believes the 100-meter height criterion weakens conservation efforts. This vast Aravalli range acts as a barrier. It separates the Thar Desert from the northern plains, extending from Gujarat to Delhi. Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav stated no new mining leases would be given. This is pending the preparation of a sustainable mining management plan for the Aravalli region.
Akshay Didwaniya
