New Delhi, September 7:The Supreme Court on Monday granted the High Powered Committee (HPC) time until November 30 to submit its report on the definition and demarcation of the Aravalli Hills, while rejecting its request for an extension until February 2027.
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana directed the committee to complete the exercise within the extended deadline, observing that it could work “day and night” if necessary. The court also made it clear that no further extension would be granted.
The HPC had sought an additional six months, citing the need to consult all stakeholders, including tribal communities in Rajasthan and Gujarat. During the hearing, the CJI remarked that the committee had “basically asked for an adjournment till my retirement.” Chief Justice Surya Kant is scheduled to retire on February 9.
The bench directed the HPC to submit a final report by November 30, while allowing it to file interim reports on specific issues so that the court could address urgent matters separately.
Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the Centre, informed the court that an interim report had already been prepared. However, she said additional time was needed to ensure that affected stakeholders were effectively heard.
The court was hearing suo motu proceedings concerning the definition and demarcation of the Aravalli Range, one of northwestern India’s most important ecological systems. The range serves as a natural barrier between the arid desert regions of the northwest and the fertile plains of northern India.
The proceedings stem from the Supreme Court’s November 2025 judgment, which accepted an elevation-based definition of the Aravalli Hills for the regulation of mining activities. The judgment was later kept in abeyance following concerns over its potential ecological impact and the extent of the areas that would come under protection.
The matter will be heard next on December 2.
