As per the law laid down by S.C. disturbance of the basic environment elements namely air, water & soil which are necessary for life would be hazardous to life within meaning of Article 21 of constitution besides enforcing the provisions of various statutory provisions, the apex ct has also given effect to F.R. u/a 14 & 21 & has held that if these rights are violated by disturbing the environment it can award damages not only for restoration of biological balance but also for victim who have suffered due to that disturbance. This has been so directed by S.C. in
Explanation:
The Supreme Court's pronouncements linking environmental protection to fundamental rights under Articles 14 and 21, and establishing the principle of awarding damages for environmental degradation (including restoration costs and compensation to victims), were significantly elaborated in the case of *Vellore Citizens' Welfare Forum v. Union of India* (1996). This case dealt with pollution caused by tanneries in Tamil Nadu and affirmed the Polluter Pays Principle and the Precautionary Principle as part of environmental law in India.