Topic Details (Notes format)

Public Interest Litigation (PIL)

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

A legal innovation allowing any public-spirited individual or organization to file cases for societal welfare, especially addressing the voiceless. It led to pathbreaking reforms in environmental protection, human rights, and governance. PIL expanded the concept of “locus standi,” enabling courts to inquire into executive inaction. While it democratized access to justice, concerns rose about frivolous litigations clogging courts. Nonetheless, PIL remains vital for exposing corruption, safeguarding environmental concerns (like river pollution), and implementing directive principles on socio-economic justice. Its success depends on judicial vigilance and genuine petitions aimed at public good rather than personal vendettas.

Practice Questions

Which article of the Indian Constitution allows the President to declare a National Emergency?

Who is responsible for the appointment of the members of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)?

कार्यपालिका के प्रमुख का चुनाव किसके द्वारा किया जाता है?

Which of the following is a power of the Rajya Sabha?

न्यायाधीशों की नियुक्ति में किस समिति की सिफारिश ली जाती है?

Who among the following is the ex-officio Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission of India?

कार्यपालिका और विधानपालिका के बीच संतुलन किस सिद्धांत पर आधारित है?

राष्ट्रपति के आदेशों को निरस्त करने का अधिकार किसके पास है?

Who has the authority to dissolve the Rajya Sabha?

लोकसभा का कार्यकाल कितने वर्षों का होता है?