Role Of Public Interest Litigation (PILs) In Strengthening The Democracy
- IJLLR Journal
- May 24
- 1 min read
Lovina Kochar, BBA. LL.B., Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies, New Delhi
ABSTRACT
A crucial judicial development that took place in the early 20th century, India, was the expansion of Articles 32 and 226 of the Constitution and the introduction of the concept of Public Interest Litigation (PIL). This came into existence upon relaxation of the traditional rule of Locus Standi to allow public-spirited individuals to file cases in courts on behalf of underprivileged groups who are unable to approach the court themselves. Thereby, strengthening constitutional governance and helping in the eradication of systematic injustices that prevail in society.
Various judgements like S.P. Gupta v. Union of India, Hussainara Khatoon v. State of Bihar laid the foundation for this development and subsequent cases like M.C. Mehta and Vishaka expanded the scope of PIL into areas of environmental protection, gender justice,
However, its expansion has, time and again raised serious concerns about its misuse through unsubstantiated and frivolous petitions. Ultimately, the solution lies not in scrapping PIL as a redressal mechanism but by practicing judicial scrutiny at the stage of admission of petition.
