The Supreme Court on Monday emphasized that the expert committee constituted to define the Aravalli hills and ranges must conduct wide-ranging consultations with domain experts, stakeholders, and the public to ensure strong environmental safeguards. The observation comes amid ongoing judicial scrutiny over mining activity and ecological protection in the Aravalli region, one of the oldest mountain systems in India.

A three-judge bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi stated that while expert participation is essential, the committee must remain compact and efficient. The bench noted that an excessively large panel would become difficult to manage and suggested that the committee should ideally consist of five to seven members. The court indicated that this structure would ensure better coordination and quicker decision-making.

The court further directed that the proposed expert panel must actively engage with subject-matter specialists and citizens before finalizing any definition of the Aravalli hills and ranges. It reiterated that public consultation is necessary to balance environmental protection with developmental and regulatory considerations. The bench also said that the court’s directions would be formally recorded in its order to ensure compliance and clarity in implementation.

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The issue of defining the Aravalli ranges has significant environmental and regulatory implications, particularly in relation to mining restrictions. Earlier proceedings in the case had led to a halt on mining activities in the Aravallis, along with a temporary suspension of a uniform definition. Previous expert suggestions had proposed classifying an “Aravalli Hill” as a landform rising at least 100 metres above local terrain, and an “Aravalli Range” as two or more such hills located within 500 metres of each other.

During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the Centre, informed the court that inputs from the Central Empowered Committee and the amicus curiae had already been received regarding possible names and structure of the panel. Senior advocate K. Parameshwar, acting as amicus curiae, also supported broader stakeholder engagement, stating that public opinion should be considered to strengthen the legitimacy of the final decision and ensure balanced environmental governance.

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