Parliamentary panel highlights staffing and digital gaps at the National Green Tribunal
A parliamentary standing committee on law and justice reported serious staffing shortages, weak IT support and case backlogs at the National Green Tribunal, and suggested reforms to improve its efficiency.
During the recent monsoon session, the parliamentary standing committee on law and justice submitted a report exposing major operational flaws at the National Green Tribunal. Key issues include a severe shortage of permanent judicial and expert members, dependence on contractual workers, and the lack of a dedicated computer/IT section despite the government's push for digitalisation. While the tribunal has adopted e-filing, hybrid hearings and case-information systems, the committee recommends expanding digital tools to streamline listing, tracking and transparency, especially for litigants in remote or vulnerable areas.
Data up to June 30, 2026 show 5,879 cases pending, with the New Delhi bench holding the largest backlog. The panel proposes a tracking system for cases delayed beyond three years and stronger follow-up mechanisms for order enforcement, while respecting the Supreme Court’s jurisdiction.
Why it matters
Improving the NGT’s capacity and digital tools can speed up environmental justice and prevent further ecological damage.
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