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 significantly enhanced the understanding and application of Fundamental Rights, particularly the Right to Life enshrined in Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. Initially, Article 21 was interpreted narrowly, limiting it to the protection against deprivation of life and personal liberty except according to the procedure established by law. However, through various landmark judgements, the Supreme Court has broadened the scope of Article 21 to encompass a wide array of rights contributing to a life of dignity.

The pivotal transition began with the landmark case of Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978), where the Supreme Court shifted towards a more expansive interpretation. It ruled that 'procedure established by law' must be fair, just, and reasonable, thus avoiding any arbitrary or oppressive action impacting personal liberty. This laid the groundwork for future extensions. 

Subsequent rulings have included several dimensions under Article 21:

• Right to Privacy: Recognized as a part of the Right to Life and Personal Liberty in the Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (Retd.) v. Union of India (2017) judgement.
• Right to Livelihood: Originating from the Olga Tellis v. Bombay Municipal Corporation (1985), ensuring that the deprivation of livelihood equates to the deprivation of life.
• Right to a Healthy Environment: It has been linked with the preservation and improvement of health, including clean air and potable water.
• Right to Education: Initially implied under Article 21, later explicitly recognized as a fundamental right through Article 21A.
• Right against Inhuman Treatment: Acknowledged in cases concerning custodial violence and the humane treatment of prisoners.

Through these interpretations, the Supreme Court has effectively expanded the scope of Article 21 to ensure not just physical but a qualitative life, thus profoundly impacting how Fundamental Rights are perceived and protected in India. Therefore, the correct answer is: By expanding the interpretation to include various aspects of a quality life.

Answer 2

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.