The Supreme Court has overturned a National Green Tribunal ruling that imposed a ₹5 crore compensation on the Art of Living Foundation for environmental damages related to its 2016 festival. The Court found a lack of evidentiary support linking the festival to the alleged damage to the Yamuna floodplains.
Supreme Court Overturns NGT's 2017 Order Against Art of Living
On August 22, 2026, the Supreme Court of India set aside a 2017 order issued by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that held the Art of Living Foundation accountable for environmental harm caused to the Yamuna floodplains during its 2016 World Culture Festival. The Court's decision was delivered by a Bench comprising Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice NK Singh.
The NGT had previously ordered a compensation of ₹5 crore, asserting that the festival negatively impacted the floodplain's ecological integrity. However, upon review, the Supreme Court found the Tribunal's ruling lacking in causal connection between the event and any demonstrable environmental degradation.
In its analysis, the Supreme Court emphasized the importance of substantiating claims with clear evidence. It stated,
“The NGT has failed to establish a causal link between the festival and the alleged environmental degradation.”This clarification highlights the judiciary's stance on requiring substantiated claims, particularly in environmental matters.
This ruling not only absolves the Art of Living Foundation of financial liability but also emphasizes the need for robust evidence in environmental litigation. Legal practitioners should note the implications for future cases involving environmental regulations and the burden of proof required in similar contexts.
Citations
- Vyakti Vikas Kendra India v Manoj Misra (dead) & Ors. (2026) SCC 1
