File Photo: Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar.
The Centre, which was keen on amending key green laws as early as second half of the budget session, will now reportedly adopt a slower and a more studied approach. This shift in pace, comes after opposition from various state governments at a two day conference of states' environment and forest ministers. On agenda was to seek views from the state governments on various environment related issues, including the Subramaniam committee report
"The Subramaniam committee report is just one input on the matter. We are also getting inputs form other states. We will consider all inputs and come out with a comprehensive law in a little time. We are not in a hurry," said Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar today at a press meet in Delhi.
Government sources tell NDTV that a number of states have expressed their reservations on different aspects of the Subramaniam committee report.
Several state governments are opposed to the recommendations, which according to them; give overriding powers to the Centre leaving very little role of states.
Another common concern is the proposed setting up of national and state level environment management authorities for speeding up single window clearances. States are worried they will have no say in them since the appointment to these bodies will be at the Centre's discretion only.
An unclear definition of 'forest' will impinge on their authority. Other objections raised by states revolve around withdrawal of Gram Sabha consent and dilution of public hearings.
Some states also feel the committee, that submitted its report in three months, hasn't had enough time to consult the public, restricting itself to visits to limited big cities without making an attempt to reach more people.