Constitutional Mandates And Environmental Jurisprudence For MarginalisedCommunities

Written by: Adv Kavita N Solunke, (BA, BSL, LLM, GDC&A, PG(ADR), STAR Cyber Crime Intervention Officer, (CCIO), Additional Government Pleader, Arbitrator, Mediator, High Court of Mumbai & Notary Govt of India

&

Dr Rashmi Solunke, M.B.B.S., DNB (Anaesthesia), Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka, New Delhi

Published on: 20^th February 2026

Abstract

This conference paper establishes a vital nexus between environmental jurisprudence and constitutional mandates, examining how judicial interpretations and fundamental rights provisions empower marginalised communities in environmental justice struggles. Through an interdisciplinary framework integrating constitutional law, environmental jurisprudence, and human rights doctrine, this analyses how constitutional environmental mandates and judicial precedents can either perpetuate or redress environmental inequalities. Defined as JurisprudEquity, the constitutionalising of environmental justice, and this approach centres on leveraging fundamental rights, public trust doctrine, and sustainable development principles to address environmental injustices through judicial and legislative mechanisms.

The paper evaluates the effectiveness of constitutional remedies, including Article 21 rights to life and environment, Article 48A Directive Principles, and Article 51A(g) fundamental duties, alongside judicial doctrines like the precautionary principle, polluter pays, and public trust. Drawing from landmark jurisprudence in MC Mehta v. Union of India, Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union, and Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar, this demonstrates how constitutional courts have transformed environmental rights into enforceable mandates. Platforms such as PILs, judicial commissions, and National Green Tribunal mechanisms serve as critical conduits for marginalised communities to access environmental justice.

Keywords: JurisprudEquity, Environmental jurisprudence, Constitutional mandates, Article 21 environment, Public Trust Doctrine, Sustainable development, PIL mechanisms, Eco-constitutionalism

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