About

Advocate Mahesh Chander Mehta is a renowned public interest lawyer whose trailblazing environmental litigation has reshaped India's legal landscape. Known globally for his unwavering commitment to environmental justice, Mehta has led several landmark cases that established key legal doctrines like strict liability, Polluter Pays, and the Precautionary Principle. His efforts have directly influenced national policy, regulatory frameworks, and industrial compliance. For his extraordinary contributions, he has been honored with prestigious awards including the Padma Shri, Ramon Magsaysay Award, and the UNEP Global 500 Award. Notable Cases: Oleum Gas Leak Case: Established corporate liability and stringent safety norms for hazardous industries. Ganga Pollution Case: Forced industrial regulation to curb effluent discharge into the Ganga. Taj Mahal Preservation: Triggered industrial pollution controls to safeguard the iconic monument. Lead-Free Gasoline Case: Mandated nationwide use of unleaded petrol—key step in air quality reform. Groundwater Pollution (Bichhri): Secured closure and cleanup of chemical industries for toxic dumping. Tamil Nadu Tanneries Case: Enforced compensation and regulation for widespread water pollution. Prawn Farming Case: Brought in environmental controls on coastal aquaculture to prevent ecological damage.