Gauhati High Court imposed a fine of Rs. 10,000/- on Assam forest department for failing to file an affidavit in case related to permission given to Oil India Limited for dwelling wells for hydrocarbons in Dibru Saikhowa National park, Assam.
A PIL was filed jointly by advocate Mrinmoy Khataniar and mountaineer Amar Jyoti Deka in front of HC Bench comprising Chief Justice (Acting) N Kotiswar Singh and Justice Manish Choudhury who imposed the cost on the respondent for not following to the court’s earlier instructions.
The PIL raised concerns, as the situation like baghjan’s gas well tragedy might take place at Dibru park too if the company goes ahead with drilling. The union forest, ministry of environment and climate change gave environmental clearance for extension of testing and drilling of hydrocarbons at seven locations in the eco sensitive park.
The matter is listed to be heard on November 19th, 2020 after the court vacations.
