Existing NGT Members Will Continue Till New Appointments Are Made : Centre Tells Supreme Court

The Union Government informed the Supreme Court that the existing Members of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) will continue to hold office and discharge their duties until new appointments are made and the appointees assume charge.

A bench of Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran was hearing applications seeking a direction to the Union of India to fill up vacancies in the NGT. The applicants had expressed concern that two Members of the Principal Bench, New Delhi, are due to retire on November 13, 2025, and January 14, 2026, respectively, which could render the Bench non-functional.

Appearing for the Centre, Attorney General for India R. Venkataramani assured the Court that there would be no disruption in the functioning of the Tribunal. He stated that the current Members will continue in office until the newly appointed Members take charge.

Taking note of the Attorney General's assurance, the Court observed that no interim directions were necessary and disposed of the applications accordingly.

The assurance of the AG was recorded in the order passed on November 10.The bench was hearing the Madras Bar Association case concerning the validity of the Tribunal Reforms Act 2021.

Case : Madras Bar Association v Union of India WP(c) No. 1018/2021 and connected case.

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