Court Cannot Take Cognizance of Offence Under Water Act Without Valid Authorization from Pollution Control Board: Rajasthan High Court

The Rajasthan High Court has clarified that a criminal court cannot take cognizance of an offence under the Water (Prevention And Control Of Pollution) Act, 1974 unless the complaint is filed by the Pollution Control Board or by a person who has been validly authorized by the Board. The Court emphasized that compliance with Section 49 Of Water (Prevention And Control Of Pollution) Act, 1974 is mandatory and any complaint…