Guwahati, Oct 24: The Gauhati High Court on Thursday adjourned the public interest litigation (PIL) filed by senior journalist Rajeev Bhattacharyya concerning the declaration of an eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) for Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve.
Bhattacharyya’s petition pointed out that, despite several Supreme Court directives, the Assam government has not yet declared the eco-sensitive area around Kaziranga.
The Assam government’s counsel raised a preliminary objection, stating that the issue is currently being deliberated by the Supreme Court, which has periodically issued directions to the state government and others regarding the matter.
Given the pending Supreme Court case, the counsel suggested that the High Court hold off on making any decisions until the Supreme Court passes a final or effective order.
In light of the submissions made by the petitioner’s counsel, the Gauhati High Court has decided to adjourn the PIL concerning the declaration of an eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) for Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve sine die. The case will remain inactive until the Supreme Court issues a final or effective order regarding the eco-sensitive zone issue.
The court acknowledged that the matter is still under consideration before the Supreme Court in the case of Re: T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad Vs. Union of India & Ors. Once the Supreme Court has made its decision, the parties involved in the PIL will be free to apply to the case to be listed again in the court.
