The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sent notices to leading pollution control organizations in response to allegations of plastic packaging violations by gutkha and pan masala makers. The Citizens Foundation filed a petition alleging widespread non-compliance with the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, which prompted the action.
Despite a statutory ban, a number of businesses still disregard the law's prohibition on the use of plastic sachets and multilayered polymers in tobacco product packaging. In October 2021, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) issued orders under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, which at least 25 manufacturers failed to follow, as mentioned in the plea. Companies were required by these directives to switch to environmentally friendly options, present compliance schedules, and compensate the environment for any delays.
The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) and the CPCB have been asked to provide thorough answers by the NGT bench, which is made up of Justice Prakash Shrivastava and expert member Dr. A. Senthil Vel. Infractions of the 2016 Rules' Rules 4(f) and 4(i) might result in factory closures, the seizure of commodities, and fines ranging from ?5,000 to ?20,000 per tonne of plastic used.
The plea also makes use of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework, referencing a 2021 CPCB report that warns of interest rates ranging from 12 to 24 percent on back payments. Violations may result in criminal prosecution if payments are not made for more than three months.
The case represents a fresh push in the tobacco business for environmental compliance and accountability. Given the urgency, the NGT has set the next hearing for September 26, 2025, and instructed the petitioner to provide proof of service and issue notifications to all remaining respondents one week in advance.
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