SHRAVAN KRISHNAN Vs. UNION OF INDIA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This writ petition has been filed as a public interest litigation against the conducting of a festival "Spoken Wave" at the premises of the third respondent.

(2.) It is contended that the holding of the festival would put the vast number of Olive Ridley turtles, an extinguishing species, at imminent risk. According to the petitioner, Olive Ridley sea turtles are a species of turtles common to India, who typically nest on the beaches of Chennai between January and April. It is stated that the number has been declined over the past few years and the species is recognised as vulnerable by the IUCN Red list. It is, therefore, imperative that every effort be made to protect this vulnerable species from external agents during their nesting season. This writ petition has been filed on the apprehension that the holding of the "Spoken Wave" festival on the beach would harm the vulnerable Olive Ridley turtles. It is stated that about 3,000 people are to congregate at the beach front of the Resort.

(3.) There can be no doubt that the sea turtles also need to be protected. At the same time, this Court is not inclined to stop the festival for which tickets and/or passes have apparently been issued. The festival is scheduled to be held on 24.02.2018. Mr.Prabhakaran, learned Senior Counsel appearing on behalf of the third respondent, submits that the festival is a charitable one intended to raise funds for charity.