The Rajasthan High Court has ordered an immediate halt to all construction activities in the ecologically sensitive Mount Abu region without prior permission of the court, expressing serious concern over reports of rampant and potentially illegal construction in and around the hill station.
The direction was issued by the Division Bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma and Justice Baljinder Singh Sandhu while hearing PIL, filed by residents of Abu Road in Sirohi district.
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Allegations of Illegal Construction
During the hearing, counsel for the petitioners informed the court that large-scale constructions were being carried out around lakes and forest areas of Mount Abu, despite existing restrictions and environmental protections. The petitioners submitted photographs and Google location details to support their claims.
The petition specifically highlighted alleged encroachments and construction activities in:
- Village Danav
- Village Umrani
- Areas surrounding the Shantivan/Manmohini Complex
- The Anand Sarovar region
It was also alleged that constructions were being undertaken by institutions linked to the Brahma Kumaris at Shantivan in violation of environmental norms.
Court Expresses Alarm
Taking note of the allegations, the bench observed that the situation was “alarming,” particularly because Mount Abu is a protected wildlife sanctuary with statutory safeguards already in place.
The court noted that any unchecked construction in the area could severely damage the fragile ecology of the hill station.
Notices Issued to Authorities and Institutions
The High Court issued notices to several authorities and institutions, including wildlife and forest officials as well as representatives of the Brahma Kumaris organization.
The bench also directed senior local administrative officials—including the District Collector of Sirohi, the Sub-Divisional Officer of Abu Road, and the Tehsildar of Abu Road—to personally appear before the court at the next hearing.
Strict Interim Directions
As an interim measure, the court passed strict directions:
- No construction activity will be permitted anywhere in the Mount Abu region without the court’s permission.
- The Additional Superintendent of Police concerned will be held responsible if any construction is allowed in violation of the order.
Next Hearing
The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on March 24, 2026, when the court will review compliance with its directions and examine the allegations of illegal encroachments in the protected hill station.
Mount Abu, Rajasthan’s hill station and an important biodiversity zone, has long faced concerns over unregulated development and environmental degradation. The High Court’s intervention is expected to bring heightened scrutiny to construction activities and land use in the region.
Case Details
Case Title: Shri Nitin Jain and Ors. v/s State of Rajasthan
Citation: D.B. Civil Writ Petition No. 4523/2026
Counsel for the Petitioner: Adv. Rajesh Shah, Adv. Mahipal Singh
Counsel for the Respodents: Mahaveer Bishnoi, AAG with Mr. Harshwardhan Singh
