SC Overturns Aravalli Hills Verdict: 100-Meter Definition Stayed Amid Protests

• Supreme Court initially ruled on November 20, 2025, defining Aravalli Hills for conservation based on a '100-meter height' criterion, potentially excluding 90-96% of the range.
• The previous bench, led by Ex CJI Gavai, accepted this definition from the Union Environment Ministry's technical committee.
• Following widespread public and environmental protests, a new bench led by CJI Suryakant stayed the November 20 decision on December 28-29, 2025.
• The 100-meter definition was deemed contentious, requiring serious scientific and ecological review, as it could exclude vital conservation areas.
• A new high-powered expert committee will now investigate, and the 100-meter rule will not be implemented until further review.

Why It Matters: SC reversed its Aravalli Hills conservation rule, prioritizing ecological review over a restrictive definition.