Introduction
Public Interest Litigation (PIL) is a legal action taken by an individual or a group of individuals in the public interest, seeking justice for all. It is a powerful tool to ensure that the rights of the marginalized and vulnerable sections of society are protected and upheld.
Key Features of PIL
- Initiated by any citizen or group
- Addresses larger public issues
- Focuses on social justice
- Seeks enforcement of constitutional rights
Examples of PIL
One of the most famous PIL cases in India is the Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan, where the Supreme Court laid down guidelines to prevent sexual harassment of women in the workplace. This landmark case was initiated by a group of activists and led to the enactment of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013.
Case Studies
In the case of MC Mehta v. Union of India, the Supreme Court took suo moto cognizance of the deteriorating air quality in Delhi and issued directives to control pollution. This PIL led to the implementation of measures such as the banning of diesel vehicles older than 10 years and the introduction of CNG buses in the city.
Statistics on PIL
According to a report by the National Judicial Data Grid, the number of PIL cases filed in India has been steadily increasing over the years. In 2020 alone, over 15,000 PIL cases were filed across various courts in the country.
Conclusion
Public Interest Litigation is a crucial instrument for promoting social justice and holding the government accountable. By allowing citizens to raise issues of public importance, PIL helps in ensuring a fair and just society for all.
