BHOPAL: The Madhya Pradesh High Court has granted the state government six weeks to safely dispose of the hazardous waste from the Union Carbide factory, adhering strictly to safety norms. The decision came during a hearing on Monday, following concerns about the environmental and health risks associated with the disposal process.

Court Emphasizes Safety and Public Confidence

A division bench comprising Chief Justice SK Kait and Justice Vivek Jain responded to Advocate General Prashant Singh's request for additional time to address public apprehensions. Singh informed the court about unrest in Pithampur, where the waste is currently stored, caused by misleading and fictitious news about the disposal.

To prevent further unrest, the bench instructed the media to refrain from spreading inaccurate information about the issue.

Waste Transfer and Public Protests

The waste, packed in 12 sealed containers, was transported from Bhopal to a disposal site in Pithampur, Dhar district, on January 2. However, the disposal plan has faced significant opposition from local residents. Just days ago, two protesters attempted self-immolation during demonstrations against the waste's planned disposal. Protesters fear that the process could harm human health and the environment.

Despite these challenges, the court reminded the government that it is responsible for ensuring the waste is disposed of in accordance with safety guidelines. The state also requested three additional days to complete the unloading of the sealed containers in Pithampur.

Lingering Shadows of the 1984 Gas Tragedy

The waste originates from the infamous Bhopal gas tragedy on December 2-3, 1984, when methyl isocyanate (MIC) gas leaked from the Union Carbide pesticide factory, resulting in over 5,000 deaths and leaving thousands with lasting injuries and health complications.

Nearly four decades after the disaster, the hazardous waste remains a pressing issue. During the last hearing on December 3, 2024, the High Court criticized the authorities for their prolonged inaction, warning of the potential for another environmental disaster if the waste was not addressed promptly.

Petition and Next Steps

The High Court's directives stem from a writ petition filed in 2004, urging the safe disposal of the waste. Petitioner’s counsel, Naman Nagrath, emphasized the importance of thorough testing before disposal to ensure environmental and public safety.

The court has warned of contempt proceedings should the state fail to comply with its orders. The government now faces the dual challenge of executing the disposal safely while addressing public fears and misinformation.