The Bhopal court has reaffirmed its jurisdiction over the ongoing criminal proceedings related to the catastrophic 1984 gas tragedy, rejecting Dow Chemical’s request to transfer the case to a CBI court in Indore. This decision underscores the court’s commitment to ensuring that justice is served within the local jurisdiction where the disaster occurred, maintaining continuity in the legal process that has been ongoing for decades.

The 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy remains one of the world’s worst industrial disasters, with thousands of lives lost and many more affected by the toxic gas leak from the Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL) pesticide plant. The legal proceedings have been complex and protracted, involving multiple parties and jurisdictions over the years. Dow Chemical, which acquired Union Carbide Corporation in 2001, has been involved in legal battles concerning liability and compensation for the victims.

In its plea, Dow Chemical sought to move the case to an Indore CBI court, arguing for a change in venue. However, the Bhopal court dismissed this request, emphasizing its authority and responsibility to continue overseeing the case. The court’s decision reflects a broader commitment to addressing historical grievances and ensuring accountability for past corporate actions that have had lasting impacts on communities.

The next hearing is scheduled for August 23, marking another step in the long journey toward justice for those affected by the tragedy. The court’s decision is seen as a victory for victim advocacy groups who have long fought to keep the proceedings within Bhopal, where the disaster’s impact was most acutely felt. This ruling may also set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in terms of jurisdiction and corporate accountability.