Preserving Nature’s Web: An Analysis of the Centre for Environment Law, WWF-1 v. Union of India & Ors.

Abstract

The actions of humans pose a significant threat to the biodiversity of the world and have a negative impact on the survival of a substantial number of species, putting them in danger of going extinct. As an illustration, the Asiatic Lion, which has the status of an endangered species, is a good example. A population of approximately 500 lions is currently found in Gir National Park, which is located in the state of Gujarat in India. This lion, which was once abundant, is now restricted to its only habitat in India. A decisive action taken by the “Centre for Environment Law and the Worldwide Fund for Nature India” (“WWF”) prompted them to contest the Indian government, which resulted in a ruling by the Hon’ble Supreme Court that ensured the lions’ protection and established a precedent for the conservation of biodiversity. The lions appeared to be on the verge of extinction and now find themselves in their second home after Gir National Park at the Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary, with a population of 40 Asiatic Lions. The purpose of this study is to gain an understanding of the landmark judgement and to investigate the legal factors that led the court to order the protection of Asiatic Lions in India. With the help of this research, the impact of the judgement will be investigated further. To understand the case law and arrive at conclusions, conventional research, i.e., the doctrinal research has been utilised.