The Supreme Court has declined to grant the High-Powered Committee a six-month extension sought for completing its final report on the scientific definition, delineation and protection of the Aravalli Hills and Ranges.
A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Monday granted only a limited extension, directing the Committee to submit its final report by November 30, 2026. The Court made it clear that no further extension would be entertained.
The Committee had originally been required to submit its report by August 31, 2026, but sought additional time until February 28, 2027, citing the need for further consultations and examination of the issues involved.
The request for an extension beyond February 2027 also drew a pointed observation from CJI Surya Kant, who is scheduled to retire that month.
“The committee has basically asked for an adjournment till my retirement,” the Chief Justice remarked during the proceedings.
The Court directed the Committee to ensure that its deliberations are sufficiently broad-based and include all stakeholders who may be affected by the proposed definition and regulatory framework for the Aravalli landscape.
In particular, the Bench directed that tribal communities in Rajasthan and Gujarat be heard before the Committee finalises its recommendations.
The Court also permitted the Committee to place issue-specific interim reports before it wherever the circumstances warrant, thereby allowing matters requiring urgent judicial consideration to be brought to its notice without waiting for the completion of the comprehensive final report.
The proceedings arise from the Supreme Court’s continuing scrutiny of the manner in which the Aravalli Hills and Ranges should be scientifically identified and accorded effective environmental protection.
The issue assumes considerable significance given the ecological importance of the Aravalli range and its bearing on mining activities, land-use regulation, environmental degradation and conservation measures across the region.
The Court has listed the matter for further hearing on December 2, 2026, by which time the Committee is expected to have submitted its final report.
The direction effectively places the Committee on a strict judicial timetable, while underscoring that the exercise of defining the Aravallis must be scientifically rigorous, participatory and responsive to the interests of communities dependent upon the region’s natural resources.
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