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Supreme Court Rejects Vehicle Star-Rating PIL Amid India's Pollution Crisis

The Supreme Court has turned down a plea for implementing a nationwide star-rating system for vehicles to combat pollution. The court emphasized that this matter properly belongs to the government's domain rather than judicial intervention. The petitioner argued that such ratings would help consumers make environmentally conscious choices when buying cars. Despite rejecting the PIL, the court suggested the petitioner could still approach the Union Government with their proposal.

Key Points: SC Rejects India Vehicle Pollution Star Rating System PIL

  • Supreme Court bench led by CJI Gavai declines vehicle star-rating PIL
  • Petitioner Dr Sanjay Kulshrestha argued for consumer environmental choice empowerment
  • PIL cited 2.1 million air pollution deaths in India during 2021
  • Court suggested petitioner approach Union Government with representation
2 min read

SC rejects PIL seeking pan-India star-rating system for vehicles

Supreme Court refuses to mandate pan-India vehicle star-rating system, says matter falls within government domain while acknowledging pollution concerns.

"Since the matter falls in the domain of the State, we are not inclined to interfere - CJI B.R. Gavai"

New Delhi, Oct 27

The Supreme Court on Monday refused to entertain a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking directions to implement a star-rating system for vehicles across India to reduce air pollution and related health hazards.

A bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran observed that the issue fell within the domain of the government and declined to interfere in the matter.

"Since the matter falls in the domain of the State, we are not inclined to interfere; however, the petitioner can make a representation to the Union of India, which will be considered on its own merits," the CJI Gavai-led Bench ordered.

The petition, filed by Dr Sanjay Kulshrestha, who appeared in person, argued that a vehicle star-rating system, similar to those adopted in several developed countries, would empower consumers to make environmentally responsible choices and help curb vehicular pollution.

"Today, even in India, energy-based star rating exists for refrigerators, ACs, then why not have such for automobiles. This is despite that AC & fridge are used inside the house while automobiles are on the road and adversely affect the health of others. Our luxury shouldn't create problems to others," stated the PIL, adding that this star rating would encourage consumers for an environment-friendly car.

It highlighted that in India, air pollution caused 2.1 million deaths in 2021, and of these, 60 per cent were attributed to PM2.5 - primarily emitted from vehicular exhaust.

Citing a study published in The Lancet Regional Health journal, the plea stated that data reveal high levels of PM2.5 air pollution claim approximately 33,000 lives each year in major Indian cities such as Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Actually, I think SC made the right call. Judiciary shouldn't micromanage policy matters. Let the transport ministry handle this through proper channels. Separation of powers is important.
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Sarah B
As someone living in Delhi, these pollution numbers are terrifying. 33,000 deaths annually in major cities? We need the star-rating system yesterday! Why can't we learn from other countries?
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Arjun K
The petitioner makes a valid point - we have star ratings for ACs and fridges but not for vehicles that pollute public spaces. Our right to luxury shouldn't harm others' right to breathe clean air.
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Vikram M
While the idea is good, implementation will be tough. Car manufacturers will resist, and consumers might not pay extra for eco-friendly vehicles. Need proper incentives and awareness first.
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Michael C
Respectfully, I think the PIL was premature. The government is already working on BS-VI norms and electric vehicle policies. Sometimes judicial intervention isn't the solution for everything.

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