While national security is a non-negotiable sovereign duty, ecological health is a non-negotiable biological necessity. The ethical dilemma arises because both sides claim the “Right to Life” (Article 21).
National security imperative
All weather connectivity. Eg- Zojila or Sela tunnels
Logistics and supply lines
Surveillance and communication. Eg- Installing radar stations
Rapid deployment capability
Strategic deterrence. Eg- Great Nicobar Port in IOR
Disaster response access
Hearts and minds strategy. Eg- vibrant village program
Ethical dilemmas related to environmental clearance
Utilitarianism vs. Deontology/ right vs right dilemma – sacrificing a unique, irreplaceable ecosystem for the “greater good” of national security.
Connectivity vs ecology – Highway projects degrade fragile ecosystems. Eg- Char Dham Pariyojana
Anthropocentrism vs. Ecocentrism- Does a border road have more “value” than the extinction of an endemic species?
National interest vs local rights – Eg- Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act 2023 exempts projects within 100km of borders from certain clearances.
Speed vs scrutiny – Eg- Strategic exemptions from EIA.
Secrecy vs transparency – Classified projects limit public accountability.
Intergenerational justice dilemma – Immediate defence gains create long-term ecological vulnerability. Eg- Landslides due to hill cutting.
Human safety vs wildlife protection – Eg- Border fencing affecting elephant movement.
Development vs sustainability – Infrastructure improves access but undermines long-term ecological balance.
Slippery Slope dilemma – extension of ‘national security exemptions’ to other projects in future
Way Forward
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)
Green Engineering. Eg- “Eco-bridges”
Independent Oversight Body comprising both military strategists and ecologists
Restorative Compensation
There is need to shift from “Environmental Clearance” to “Environmental Integration” for sustainable and “Sensitive” security paradigm.