The NGT bench headed by Chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar also directed the general manager of BSNL to be present on the next date of hearing and to produce the relevant records.
"Inform the ministries concerned (Communications and IT, and Health and Family Welfare) that they should appear before the Tribunal on the next date of hearing failing which coercive orders shall be passed by the tribunal.
"We are compelled to direct the general manager of BSNL to be present on the next date of hearing. In the event of default and failure to produce relevant records, it is made clear that the tribunal shall be compelled to pass coercive orders," the NGT said and fixed February 7 as the next date of hearing.
The bench also comprising judicial member Justice P Jyothimani and expert members G K Pandey, D K Agarwal and A R Yousuf issued the directions after none appeared on behalf of the two ministries as well as BSNL.
Earlier, counsel for Ministry of Environment of Forests had informed the bench that she would have to take instructions on whether she has to appear for the two ministries as well.
The NGT was hearing Delhi resident Arvind Gupta's plea alleging inaction on the government's part in strictly implementing guidelines regarding installation of mobile towers in the country. (MORE)