Right to Life in the Constitution of India

**1. Constitutional Provisions

The Right to Life is enshrined in Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which states: “No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.” This fundamental right is a cornerstone of the Indian Constitution, ensuring that every individual has the right to live with dignity and personal security.

**2. Judicial Interpretation and Expansion

The scope of the Right to Life has been expansively interpreted by the Supreme Court of India. Over time, the Court has broadened its ambit to include various aspects of human rights and personal liberty. Key interpretations include:

• Right to Privacy: In K.S. Puttaswamy vs. Union of India (2017), the Supreme Court recognized the Right to Privacy as an integral part of the Right to Life, emphasizing that privacy is essential for personal dignity and autonomy.
• Right to Clean Environment: The Supreme Court has ruled that the Right to Life includes the Right to a Healthy Environment. In M.C. Mehta vs. Union of India (1987), the Court acknowledged the importance of environmental protection for ensuring a healthy life.
• Right to Education: The Right to Education has been incorporated into the Right to Life. In Unni Krishnan vs. State of Andhra Pradesh (1993), the Court affirmed that education is fundamental for the development of an individual’s personality.

**3. Recent Developments

• Right to Health: The Supreme Court has emphasized that the Right to Health is a part of the Right to Life. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Court addressed issues related to access to healthcare, affirming that the government must ensure adequate healthcare facilities.
• Right to Shelter: In Olga Tellis vs. Bombay Municipal Corporation (1985), the Court ruled that the Right to Life includes the Right to Shelter, reinforcing that basic living conditions are necessary for survival and dignity.

**4. Challenges and Enforcement

Despite the broad interpretation, enforcement of the Right to Life faces challenges. Issues such as inadequate healthcare facilities, environmental degradation, and socio-economic disparities continue to affect the realization of this right. Ensuring effective implementation of judicial directives and addressing systemic issues are crucial for upholding the Right to Life.

Conclusion

The Right to Life under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution is a dynamic and evolving right, encompassing various facets of human dignity and personal liberty. The Supreme Court’s expansive interpretation has significantly broadened its scope, making it a vital instrument for protecting and promoting individual rights in India.