Environmental Assessment Draft 2020

There are two ways by which the new draft seeks to cut off people’s participation while a project is undertaken. From the current version of the update, likely to become law in 60 days, gives a “minimum of 20 days” of notice period as opposed to earlier “minimum of 30 days” for the public to submit their objections or responses after.

It also requires that the public-hearing process be wrapped up in 40 days, as opposed to the earlier norm of 45 days. The short duration period will make it difficult for people who are affected by it to research into the environmental impacts and submit the same. 

Furthermore, time and again, the issue of involving local communities and seeking their approval and suggestions regarding a project which affects them have been brought. From Narmada Bachao Andolan to mining activities all have bought up the importance of public participation in decision making.