Bureau Prayagraj. Former Supreme Court judge Justice Abhay S Oka recently stressed on the need to develop scientific temper for environmental protection at an event organized in Chennai. He said that before doing any work, it is necessary to examine it on the basis of science and this applies equally to work to religious beliefs. He clarified that adopting a scientific approach is not against religion, but it helps in assessing right and wrong.

Giving examples, Justice Oka said that practices like pouring milk into rivers or bathing in them, if examined from a scientific point of view, would be clear that they harm aquatic life and it takes a long time for the water to return to normal. “Milk absorbs oxygen in water, which increases pollution and causes serious damage to the environment,” he said.

He made this comment in response to a question asked by N Ram, Director, The Hindu Group. The event was part of the annual lecture series organized by Rakesh Law Foundation and Rosa Muthiah Research Library on the theme “Environment – ​​Rights or Duties”.

Justice Oka also said that the poor are most affected by pollution in the country, while people living in cities, who are often more responsible for pollution, lead relatively comfortable lives. He expressed concern that political parties are not taking environmental issues seriously.

Referring to the role of environmental activists, he praised people like MC Mehta, who raise their voice against violation of law, but do not get enough public support. Finally, he said that the need of the hour is to raise awareness and educate people towards environmental laws and the Constitution.