The Supreme Court on Monday rejected the six-month extension sought by the High-Powered Committee constituted to examine issues concerning the definition of the Aravalli Hills and Ranges, directing it to submit its comprehensive report by November 30, 2026.
The Bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V Mohana made it clear that the Committee must comply with its earlier directions, particularly the requirement to provide an opportunity of hearing to all stakeholders, including tribal communities in Rajasthan and Gujarat. The order records:
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“We at the outset reject such prayer of the High Power Committee. It is true that the committee is obligated to comply with all the directions contained in our order dated 25th May 2026, especially with respect to affording an opportunity of being heard to all the stakeholders as contained in paragraph 14 of that order and that will include the tribal communities of the Rajasthan and Gujarat states as well, yet the prayer for grant of six months cannot be accepted.
The High Power Committee is directed to work day and night and submit the report in all circumstances by 30th November 2026. By 30th November 2026. No further extension shall be granted.”
The Court also advised the Committee to submit interim reports on specific issues, segregating them so that the Court could take up and resolve issues on which findings are available, without waiting for the entire exercise to conclude.
The matter has been posted for December 2, 2026. The Court also dealt with applications concerning State mining corporations whose limestone leases are expiring, clarifying that while they could submit reports regarding extension of lease validity, no lease deed would be formally renewed and no mining activity would be permitted in the meantime.
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