New Delhi: The Supreme Court has stayed its earlier order on the Aravalli Hills. As a result, mining will remain banned in the region. The next hearing is scheduled for January 21, 2026.
Meanwhile, the court ordered the formation of a high-powered expert committee. This panel will review the existing expert report. It will later submit fresh recommendations.
Hearing on the Aravalli Hills Dispute
On Monday, the Supreme Court heard the Aravalli case. A vacation bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant examined the matter. During the hearing, the court placed expert recommendations in abeyance.
For now, the court will not implement these recommendations. Therefore, existing mining restrictions will continue.
Government Raises Concern Over Misinformation about Aravalli Hills
During the hearing, the Solicitor General addressed the bench. He said misinformation is spreading about court orders. He also flagged confusion around the government’s role.
Earlier, authorities formed an expert committee to remove doubts. The panel later submitted its report. The court had accepted that report.
Court Acknowledges Misinterpretation about Aravalli Hills
In response, Chief Justice Surya Kant agreed with the concern. According to him, people misunderstood several court remarks. Consequently, confusion increased outside the courtroom.
If required, the court may issue clarifications. This step would ensure clarity about its intent.
Why the Court Wants a Fresh Review
Importantly, the Supreme Court stressed the need for an independent review. No decision should be enforced without full assessment. Hence, the court raised several key questions.
First, the bench asked whether the new definition reduces protected areas. Next, it questioned possible structural contradictions. In addition, it examined mining expansion in non-Aravalli zones.
Further, the court asked about mining in gaps between hill ranges. It also raised concerns about ecological continuity. Finally, it questioned regulatory gaps.
High-Powered Committee to Review Report
To address these issues, the court proposed a new expert panel. This committee will review the earlier report. It will examine environmental and legal impacts.
After review, the panel will submit clear suggestions. Only then will the court decide the next steps.
Background of the Aravalli Controversy
Earlier, in November 2025, the court accepted an environment ministry report. That report defined Aravalli hills as areas above 100 metres. This marked a shift from past rulings.
Since 1985, earlier judgments gave wide protection to the Aravalli range. Therefore, the new definition sparked concern.
Protests and Environmental Concerns
Following the order, protests broke out in Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi-NCR. Environmental activists warned of ecological damage. They cited threats to groundwater and biodiversity.
At the same time, opposition leaders criticised the move. They accused the government of weakening safeguards.
Government Responds
In contrast, the central government rejected these claims. Officials said environmental protection remains intact. They called the concerns misleading.
However, experts remain cautious. According to them, smaller hills support ecosystems.
What Happens Next
For now, the Supreme Court has paused its earlier order. Mining will remain banned until the next hearing. Until then, expert review will continue.
Ultimately, the court aims to balance development and conservation. The final decision will depend on expert findings.