The Supreme Court on Monday refused to entertain a writ petition seeking the introduction of a star-rating system for vehicles across India, aimed at helping consumers identify eco-friendly options and thereby reduce air pollution.

A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran was hearing the plea filed by Dr. Sanjay Kulshresthra, who appeared in person. He argued that the introduction of a star-rating system similar to those used in developed nations—would encourage the purchase of cleaner vehicles and contribute to lowering pollution-related deaths.

“This system already exists in most developed countries. The Gazette notification for it has been out for nearly 10 years, but it still hasn’t come into effect,” the petitioner submitted.

Dr. Kulshresthra highlighted the severe public health impact of vehicular pollution, stating that 21 lakh people die annually in India due to air pollution, with 60% of deaths attributed to PM 2.5 emissions from vehicles. He also cited the link between air pollution and birth defects in infants.

The petitioner referred to India’s pending Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (BNCAP)  an indigenous version of the Global New Car Assessment Programme (G-NCAP) which was introduced as a draft in July 2023 but has not yet been implemented.

However, the Bench declined to intervene, observing that the issue falls within the policy domain of the executive.

“Since the matter pertains to policy considerations, we are not inclined to interfere. However, the petitioner may approach the Union of India, which shall consider his representation on its own merits,” the Court said.

With this observation, the writ petition was disposed of.

Case Title: Sanjay Kulshresthra vs. Union of India

Case No.: W.P.(C) No. 834/2025