Question

Under the constitutional framework of India, the Supreme Court gradually relaxed the traditional rule of locus standi, thereby allowing public-spirited individuals to approach the Court for enforcement of fundamental rights of others. This development is most closely associated with:

• A. Enforcement of fundamental rights through individual petitions alone.
• B. Judicial review of administrative action.
• C. The evolution of Public Interest Litigation.
• D. Expansion of writ jurisdiction under Article 226.

Hint:

Locus Standi Relaxation = PIL! If you see "public-spirited individuals" approaching the Court for others, it is definitely a PIL.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The traditional rule of 'locus standi' (only the person whose rights are affected can sue) was a significant barrier to justice for the poor and marginalized. The Supreme Court relaxed this rule to create the mechanism of Public Interest Litigation (PIL).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Through landmark cases starting in the 1980s (like S.P. Gupta v. Union of India), the Court recognized that "public-spirited" individuals could file petitions on behalf of those who are unable to approach the court themselves.
- This transformation is the hallmark of the evolution of PIL in India, shifting the focus from "who is standing" to "what is the public wrong."

Step 3: Final Answer:
This judicial shift is defined by the evolution of Public Interest Litigation. Option (C) is correct.