India, March 18 -- The Supreme Court on Monday ruled that while the right to clean environment is a guaranteed fundamental right under the Indian Constitution, the right to development through industrialisation holds equal priority. The court underscored the need for sustainable development that harmonises these two rights, striking a "golden balance" between environmental protection and economic progress.

"While the right to clean environment is a guaranteed fundamental right under Articles 14 (equality) and 21 (right to life) of the Constitution of India, the right to development through industrialisation equally claims priority under fundamental rights, particularly under Articles 14, 19 (right to engage in any profession, occupation,...