The NGT had initially held the Art of Living responsible for damage to the Yamuna floodplains in December 2017, during preparations for their "World Culture Festival."

However, the SC found no direct evidence linking the festival to harm done to River Yamuna's ecosystem.

Initially, the NGT had permitted the Art of Living to hold their event after they agreed to pay a fine.

But on the opening day of their festival, organizers sought more time for depositing ₹5 crore penalty.