Sakina Tashrifwala
Published on: September 6, 2022 at 21:05 IST
A petition was filed by a law student, Shiva Pandey, seeking compensation of Rs. 15 lakhs for the impairment caused to his health due to the Delhi’s air pollution before the Delhi High Court. The petition has asked for health insurance of Rs. 25 lakhs.
A Single judge bench of Justice Yashwant Varma dismissed the case on account of failure to produce any material evidence that might establish any “personal injury” due to the Delhi Air Pollution.
The Court also observed that the plea was misconceived and orally remarked, “…Filing and the right to you to file a petition in this Court, is not merely a tool for your resume and you cv. Next time you have a serious issue to raise, you are most welcome to do so…”
He submitted reports that pollution is like a slow poison to the body, which decreases the life efficiency by 5 to 9 years and personal injury would be observed during the age of 70-75 years.
In reference to this, Justice Verma informed the petitioner that, “I don’t want a general discussion on the subject of pollution and its side effects. I am asking you, show us from the record the personal injuries suffered by you.”
“Any medical report of medical evidence or examination of a doctor who may have treated you for any ailments that you may have suffered on account of Delhi’s pollution.”
The petitioner argued that, “Few of the problems include chronic headache, eye irritation, skin irritation, effect on respiratory functions and the associated morbidity.”
“It can also cause severe lung disease and can be a reason and root of various dangerous diseases including cancer.”
He also mentioned that air pollution is the root of many diseases, thereby creating a very adverse impact on human health.
Nevertheless, the Court dismissed the case as there was no evidence to prove his deterioration of health due to air pollution.