Question

The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, came into force on

• A. 18th November 1986
• B. 19th November 1986
• C. 20th November 1986
• D. 21st November 1986

Hint:

The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 is often called an "umbrella legislation" because it gives the Central Government wide powers to issue directions, regulate industries, and protect ecological balance.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Historical context.
The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, was passed in the aftermath of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy of December 1984, one of the worst industrial disasters in India's history. The tragedy highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive law empowering the government to protect and improve the environment.

Step 2: Legislative intent.
The Act was designed as an umbrella legislation. Unlike earlier fragmented laws such as the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, this Act provided the Central Government with wide-ranging powers to regulate industrial activities, set standards, and take direct action in case of violations.

Step 3: Enforcement date.
The Act received the assent of the President and was officially brought into force on 21st November 1986. This date is significant as it marks the formal beginning of a strong centralized legal mechanism for environmental protection in India.

Step 4: Analysis of options.
- (A) 18th November 1986: Incorrect, no such enforcement notification.
- (B) 19th November 1986: Incorrect, not the official date.
- (C) 20th November 1986: Incorrect, one day prior to the actual enforcement.
- (D) 21st November 1986: Correct, official enforcement date of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

Step 5: Conclusion.
Thus, the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 came into force on 21st November 1986, making the correct answer (D).