The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has declined a request from the Special Protection Group (SPG) for an extension of the registration period for Specialized Armoured Vehicles used in the security of the Prime Minister. The SPG, a crucial unit under the Cabinet Secretariat of the Union of India, sought an extension of five years for the registration of these vehicles, citing their essential role in providing security to the Prime Minister and their unique technical specifications.

The NGT's decision came after SPG's original application was dismissed. The tribunal, chaired by Justice Prakash Shrivastava and Expert Member Dr. A Senthil Val, was informed that these specialized vehicles are not readily available in the market due to their distinct design and technical specifications. Despite SPG's efforts, including approaching the Transport Department of the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi for an extension, their request was refused.

The NGT's decision was influenced by a previous ruling by the Supreme Court, specifically the case of MC Mehta vs. Union of India & Ors., which restricted the use of diesel vehicles to a maximum of ten years. While acknowledging the specialized nature of these vehicles and their critical role in Prime Ministerial security, the NGT emphasized its obligation to abide by the Supreme Court's directive.

"We are conscious of the fact that these three vehicles are special purpose vehicles which are not normally available and these vehicles have run very less in the last ten years and are needed for the specific purpose of security of the Prime Minister but in view of the order of the Hon’ble Supreme Court dated 29.10.2018 (Supra), the prayer made in the M.A. cannot be granted," the Principal Bench of the Tribunal stated.

Case:  Vardhaman Kaushik vs. Union of India & Ors,

M.A. No. 112/2023 in Original Application No.21/2024.

Click to read/download order.