NGT slaps Rs 5 crore fine but allows Sri Sri Ravi Shankar to hold mega event

It also fined Delhi Development Authority Rs 5 lakh and Delhi Pollution Control Board Rs 1 lakh.

New Delhi:

The National Green Tribunal on Wednesday slapped a fine of Rs 5 crore on Art of Living Foundation as it heard a plea seeking stay against spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s ‘World Culture Festival’. The tribunal hasn’t issued any prohibitory orders against the holding of the event, which is scheduled for March 11.

It also fined Delhi Development Authority Rs 5 lakh and Delhi Pollution Control Board Rs 1 lakh.

Earlier, the Water Resources ministry, who faced tough questions from the NGT, told the panel it has not granted permission for the festival.

Responding to questions from the green panel, the Water Resources ministry distanced itself from the controversy, saying it has not given any clearance for the three-day event.

The Ministry of Environment and Forests, whereas, told the NGT bench headed by Justice Swatanter Kumar that no environment clearance was required for setting up temporary structures on Yamuna flood plains.

Earlier, the foundation said it will clean the river and will not cause any ecological damage with Ravi Shankar calling the petition to block the event politically motivated.

President Pranab Mukherjee’s office has pulled out of the event which is to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and will feature yoga and meditation sessions, peace prayers and cultural performances.