Question

How did the Supreme Court enhance Fundamental Rights, particularly relating to the Right to Life under Article 21?

• A. By restricting individual liberty
• B. By narrowing the scope of Article 20
• C. By expanding the interpretation to include various aspects of a quality life
• D. By expanding the scope of Fundamental Duties

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The Supreme Court of India has played a significant role in enhancing Fundamental Rights, especially the Right to Life under Article 21 of the Constitution. Let's examine the options:

1. By restricting individual liberty.
This statement is incorrect. The Supreme Court's interpretation of Article 21 has generally expanded the scope of individual liberty rather than restricting it. The Court has interpreted this right in a way that protects a broad range of life and personal freedoms.

2. By narrowing the scope of Article 20.
This statement is incorrect. Article 20 deals with protection in respect of conviction for offences, and the Supreme Court's interpretations of this article have not significantly narrowed its scope. Rather, Article 20 is related to protections against arbitrary detention and punishment, which the Court has strengthened.

3. By expanding the interpretation to include various aspects of a quality life.
This statement is correct. The Supreme Court has interpreted Article 21 (Right to Life) broadly. It has held that the Right to Life is not just limited to physical existence but includes the right to live with dignity, which encompasses aspects such as right to livelihood, right to health, right to education, right to a clean environment, and other basic human rights that ensure a quality life.

4. By expanding the scope of Fundamental Duties.
This statement is incorrect. The scope of Fundamental Duties (under Article 51A) has not been significantly expanded by the Supreme Court in relation to the Right to Life. The Fundamental Duties are distinct from Fundamental Rights and do not directly impact the interpretation of Article 21.

Thus, the correct answer is Option 3: By expanding the interpretation to include various aspects of a quality life.

Answer 2

The Supreme Court expanded the interpretation of Article 21 to include not just the right to life but the right to a dignified life with quality.