Public Interest Litigation (PIL) is a
legal mechanism through which matters affecting the public interest or the welfare of society can be brought before the courts. A PIL may be filed before the Supreme Court of India under Article 32 or before the High Courts under Article 226 of the Constitution for the protection and enforcement of fundamental and legal rights. These petitions are generally filed in cases involving social justice, environmental protection, corruption, human rights violations, public health, education and issues affecting disadvantaged or weaker sections of society. Public Interest Litigation plays a significant role in ensuring accountability, transparency and access to justice for the common public.
