'Polluter pays' principle must not be reduced to 'pollute and pay', SC told

The Supreme Court heard arguments on retrospective environmental clearances, with one lawyer arguing prior clearance is a vital safeguard, not a formality. The "polluter pays" principle shouldn't become "pollute and pay." The government defended its office memorandum, stating it doesn't offer blanket regularization but makes violations more difficult and expensive. The hearing continues.