Question

PublicInterest litigation is relaxation of which of the following requirements:

• A. Jurisdiction
• B. Locus Standi
• C. Both A & B
• D. None of the Above

Hint:

PIL changed the question from "Who has the right to bring this case?" (Locus Standi) to "Is there a public wrong that needs a remedy?". It broadened access to justice without altering the courts' powers (Jurisdiction).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The most significant innovation of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in India is the relaxation of the traditional rule of 'Locus Standi'. Locus standi means "standing to sue," which traditionally required that only a person who has suffered a direct legal injury can approach the court. PIL relaxed this rule, allowing any public-spirited citizen or organization to file a petition on behalf of those who are poor, marginalized, or unable to approach the court themselves. PIL does not relax the court's jurisdiction; it is filed under the existing constitutional jurisdiction of the Supreme Court (Art. 32) and High Courts (Art. 226).