NGT issues plastic waste violations notice to tobacco products manufacturers

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has initiated proceedings against manufacturers of gutkha, pan masala, and tobacco products, issuing a notice over alleged widespread non-compliance with the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016. This action follows a plea filed by The Citizens Foundation.

The petition asserts that despite CPCB directives issued on 22 October 2021, under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, banned plastic sachets and polymers continue to be used in packaging. These directives had specifically instructed 25 manufacturers to cease operations unless they transitioned to eco-friendly packaging alternatives, submitted timelines for the switch, and settled outstanding Environmental Compensation (EC) with applicable interest.

The plea highlights persistent violations of Rules 4(f) and 4(i) of the 2016 Rules, which explicitly prohibit such plastic packaging. Earlier CPCB reports had warned of stringent penalties for non-compliance, including factory shutdowns, seizure of goods, and fines of INR 5,000-per-tonne of plastic used. Repeat offenders, these reports indicated, could face even higher fines of up to INR 20,000-per-tonne.

Furthermore, citing a CPCB report from January 2021, the applicant underscored that under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regime, delayed EC payments could incur annual interest ranging from 12% to 24%. Delays exceeding three months, the report outlined, could lead to factory closures and potential criminal prosecution under Section 15(1) of the Environment Protection Act.

The NGT has taken cognisance of the gravity of the environmental concerns raised and has scheduled the next hearing for 26 September 2025. The applicant has been directed to serve pending notices to the remaining respondents and to file an affidavit of service one week before the scheduled hearing date.