Institute of Legal and Management Studies

The Supreme Court today refused to entertain a writ petition seeking directions to implement a star-rating system for vehicles across India to help reduce air pollution and related deaths.

The bench of CJI BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran was hearing a writ petition by Doctor Sanjay Kulshesthra, who stressed that the implementation of the star ratings in vehicles would enable the public to opt for eco-friendly vehicles, which would reduce air pollution.

Notably, a 'star-rating' system for vehicles signals how safe the vehicle is for consumers on a scale of 1-5. Presently, India is following the Global New Car Assessment Programme (G-NCAP). India's adapted version - Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (BNCAP) has been pending as a draft procedure since July 2023.

The doctor, appearing as petitioner in person, emphasised, "It already exists in most developed countries. Gazette notification is there, but it has not come out of the paper for the last 10 years."

He also highlighted that the air pollution caused especially by polluting vehicles contributed to massive deaths and even birth defects in infants.

"21 lakh people die in India every year due to air pollution. 60% are dying due to the TM 2.5, which is coming from the vehicles....I am a doctor, and it's causing birth defects in the delivery"

The bench refused to interfere in the matter related to the policy decision by the Government. The Court, however, allowed the petitioner to approach the Union.

"Since the matter falls in the domain of the state, we are not inclined to interfere; however, the petitioner can make a representation to the Union of India, which will be considered on it's own merits."

Case Details : SANJAY KULSHRESTHRA vs. UNION OF INDIA| W.P.(C) No. 000834 / 2025