Overview
- A three-judge vacation bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant kept the November 20 order in abeyance and issued notices to the Centre and the Aravalli states.
- The court directed formation of a high-powered committee of domain experts to reassess the elevation- and proximity-based definition and to conduct scientific, multi-temporal mapping.
- Judges flagged a potential “structural paradox,” asking whether the 500‑metre rule narrows conservation zones, enlarges non‑Aravalli areas, and permits mining in gaps between hills.
- The matter is listed for further hearing on January 21, 2026, with the November directives on hold until the court reviews the expert assessment.
- The environment ministry has instructed states to stop granting new mining leases across the Aravallis as protests and political criticism continue over the proposed redefinition.