M. C. Mehta facts for kids
Mahesh Chandra Mehta is a special lawyer from India. He works to protect the environment and public health. He has won many important cases in India's highest court, the Supreme Court. These cases have helped make India a cleaner and safer place for everyone.
Quick facts for kids
Mahesh Chandra Mehta
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| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Public interest attorney |
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Contents
Protecting India's Environment
What is a Public Interest Lawyer?
A public interest lawyer works for the good of society. They do not usually work for money. Instead, they fight for important causes. Mr. Mehta focuses on environmental protection. He uses the law to make sure people and companies follow rules. These rules help keep our planet healthy.
Fighting Pollution in Court
Since 1984, Mr. Mehta has fought many battles. He has taken on big industries. These industries were causing a lot of pollution. He brought these cases to the Supreme Court of India. This is the highest court in the country. He worked alone on many of these important cases.
Important Wins for Nature
Mr. Mehta has won many landmark judgments. A landmark judgment is a very important court decision. It sets a new rule for future cases. One big win was making gasoline lead-free in India. Lead is a harmful chemical. It can cause serious health problems.
He also helped clean up the Ganga River. This river is very important to India. Pollution was making it dirty. His work helped reduce industrial waste in the river. He also fought to protect the Taj Mahal. Air pollution was damaging this famous monument. His efforts helped reduce the pollution hurting it.
Awards for His Work
Mr. Mehta's hard work has been recognized globally. He received the Goldman Environmental Prize in 1996. This award is given to environmental heroes. It celebrates people who protect the natural world.
In 1997, he received the Ramon Magsaysay Award. This award is for public service in Asia. It is like Asia's Nobel Prize. The Government of India also honored him. They gave him the Padma Shri award in 2016. This is one of India's highest civilian awards.
Mr. Mehta is also a trustee for People for Animals. This group works to protect animals. He continues to be a strong voice for the environment.
