The Art of Living would like to clarify that the NGT has NOT imposed any fine on the organization as reported by some sections of the media.
The Tribunal in its interim order dated March 11, 2016 has categorically stated, "We make it clear that we have imposed a sum of Rs 5 cr initially as an 'environmental compensation' in exercise of our jurisdiction in terms of section 15 & 17 of the NGT Act and not a penalty (fine) in terms of section 26 of the NGT Act".
Media is requested to note the legal and connotational difference between 'penalty' and 'compensation'. They are completely different terms governed by different sections of the act and it is important to understand that the two cannot be used interchangeably.
A penalty indicates violation of a law but it was clear from the beginning that the Art of Living has violated no law.
The organization had obtained all permissions for the event before starting the preparations. Some activists made false allegations long after and just before the event. However, they were not able to establish any grounds nor were they able to offer any satisfactory explanation to the questions raised by the NGT to them. As a result, the NGT allowed the event to go on with a compensation amount for restoration of the land.
The media by continuously misquoting the court's order, despite a serious reprimand to it by the NGT, has already caused and continues to cause damage to the reputation of the foundation.
The Art of Living urges these sections of the media to exercise caution and to ensure accuracy of information while reporting.
