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The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has labeled the ongoing operations of illegal industrial units in Delhi as "serious environmental violations," which are contributing to air and water pollution and posing health risks to residents. The tribunal has instructed the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for North-East Delhi to clarify why the police failed to assist and provide security to the joint inspection team tasked with investigating these units.

Background of the Case

This directive was issued during a hearing presided over by Justice Prakash Srivastava, concerning unauthorized 'red' category industrial units operating illegally in the village of Gamri in East Delhi. The tribunal noted that due to a lack of effective enforcement and police cooperation, officials have been unable to fulfill their legal duties despite clear court orders.

Joint Inspection Committee Formed

The tribunal is currently examining complaints raised by the applicant regarding industrial activities harmful to the environment in residential areas. Previously, on November 8, 2024, and February 24, 2025, the NGT established a joint committee comprising representatives from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), and the District Magistrate of North-East Delhi to inspect the sites. Following complaints about insufficient police presence, the police commissioner was also made a party to the case.

Obstruction During Inspections

During the proceedings, the applicant's lawyer submitted a joint inspection report prepared as per the tribunal's directives. The report revealed that on October 31, 2025, during an inspection in Ghonda village, access was obstructed as unit owners locked the premises, denied entry, and gathered an aggressive crowd, including women, who allegedly harassed and threatened officials in the presence of police personnel.

Police Response and Tribunal's Concerns

Significantly, the tribunal noted that despite the presence of Delhi police officials, they refused to sign the joint inspection report and denied permission to break the locks, citing explicit orders. The inspection team recorded that such resistance had become a regular occurrence, effectively disrupting regulatory oversight and environmental enforcement.

Incident Reported to Authorities

The tribunal was also informed that an individual was injured during this incident, and a report was filed at the Jaffrabad police station.

Next Steps for Delhi Police

Taking these facts seriously, the NGT has directed the DCP of North-East Delhi to explain why the police did not sign the joint committee report and why adequate security and enforcement measures were not ensured. The tribunal emphasized that the illegal operation of polluting units directly violates environmental standards, leading to air and water pollution and increasing public health risks in the capital.