The Supreme Court directed Rajasthan to constitute an Inspector General-led special investigation team within three days to investigate organised illegal bajri mining affecting the Luni, Jojari and Bandi rivers.
Judge / Bench — Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta.
The 26 October 2026 order (2026 INSC 1203; Suo Motu W.P.(C)8/2025 and connected appeals) restrained new industrial permissions near the river ecosystem until flood lines and buffer zones are scientifically determined. It prescribed a 100-metre protective zone and prohibited new red-category industries within 500 metres of recorded outer boundaries. The court sought groundwater assessments and a mining-investigation status report before 27 November.
Advocates appearing — Rajasthan: S.V. Raju, Additional Solicitor General; Shiv Mangal Sharma, Additional Advocate General. Applicants, including Jodhpur Pollution Control and Research Foundation and Bherawa Textile Industries: Rishabh Sancheti. In person: Digvijay Singh Jasol. Appointed amici: Balbir Singh, Senior Counsel, assisted by Namit Saxena, Advocate-on-Record.