The Supreme Court of India has taken suo motu cognizance of the critical issue of industrial pollution plaguing the Jojari River in Rajasthan. This intervention marks a significant step towards addressing a long-standing environmental crisis that has severely impacted the health, livelihoods, and ecosystems of numerous villages in the region.

On September 16, 2025, a Bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta raised concerns about the discharge of untreated industrial waste, primarily from textile and tile factories, into the Jojari River. The Court noted that this contamination has rendered drinking water non-potable for both humans and animals, affecting hundreds of villages along the river's course. The situation is so dire that it poses serious health risks to residents, including skin diseases, gastrointestinal illnesses, and respiratory problems. The Court has registered the matter as a Public Interest Litigation (PIL).

The Jojari River, a tributary of the Luni River, flows through the Jodhpur and Pali districts of Rajasthan. For nearly two decades, it has been subjected to the continuous discharge of untreated industrial effluents from textile dyeing, chemical units, and tanneries. Reports indicate that approximately 50 villages and hamlets along the river have been severely affected by this pollution. The contamination has not only polluted the groundwater but has also destroyed farmlands, leading to a dramatic suffering in the livelihoods of villagers who depend on agriculture and livestock.

The Supreme Court's suo motu cognizance signifies its willingness to intervene in environmental governance, especially when state authorities' prolonged inaction has exacerbated the crisis. Justice Vikram Nath stated that the matter has been placed before the Chief Justice of India (CJI) for appropriate orders regarding follow-up action. This indicates the possibility of constituting a larger Bench or forming a monitoring committee to oversee remedial action. The Court's intervention underscores the urgent need for both the State Government of Rajasthan and relevant Central authorities to prevent further harm to the affected population and ensure that industries comply with environmental regulations.

The Court has not yet clarified whether its cognizance covers only the Jojari River or the larger issue of river pollution in Rajasthan. Justice Sandeep Mehta emphasized that the environmental degradation spans across hundreds of villages, severely impacting rural livelihoods and local ecosystems. The Court's move comes when environmental concerns are increasingly linked with public health crises, and judicial oversight is being sought in cases where executive action has been inadequate. The outcome of this case could set a new precedent for holding industries and state authorities accountable for long-term environmental damage and reaffirms that access to clean water and a pollution-free environment are fundamental rights.