Topic Details (Notes format)

Article 21 and Expanding Horizons

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

Originally guaranteed protection of life and personal liberty only from executive action. Judicial interpretation has vastly expanded it to include rights to health, education, livelihood, environment, shelter, reputation, and a speedy trial. The Maneka Gandhi case (1978) famously introduced “due process of law,” ensuring reasonableness in state actions. Environmental jurisprudence (Ganga pollution, vehicular emissions) recognized a healthy environment as integral to life. This expansion ensures the Constitution remains responsive to modern challenges, balancing civil liberties with collective welfare. Critics caution about judicial overreach. Nonetheless, Article 21’s breadth exemplifies the dynamic nature of Indian constitutional law.

Practice Questions

संविधान सभा की बैठकें किस वर्ष प्रारंभ हुई थीं?

Who can remove the President of India from office?

In India, the power to declare war and peace is vested in which of the following?

संविधान संशोधन के लिए मतदान कितनी बार किया जाता है?

संघीय परिषद का प्रावधान किस अनुच्छेद में है?

Which of the following is a feature of the Indian Parliament?

Which of the following is a power of the Vice President of India?

राज्यों के बीच शक्तियों का संतुलन किस सिद्धांत पर आधारित है?

What is the maximum number of judges in the Supreme Court of India?

प्रधानमंत्री का कार्यकाल कितने वर्षों का होता है?