Public Interest Litigation (PIL)
Litigation brought to vindicate the public interest, often by a person not personally affected.
Detailed Meaning
PIL relaxes the traditional locus standi requirement to allow a public-spirited individual or organisation to approach a constitutional court on behalf of persons who cannot easily approach the court themselves, typically concerning matters of significant public importance such as environmental harm or violations of the rights of a disadvantaged class.
Authoritative Sources & Provenance
Relevant Legislation
- The Constitution of India
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can file a Public Interest Litigation?
A PIL can generally be filed by any public-spirited person or organisation acting bona fide on behalf of a class of persons whose rights are affected, even without a personal stake in the matter, subject to courts guarding against its misuse for personal or political ends.
Related Concepts
General legal information for reference only, reviewed for accuracy but not a substitute for advice from a qualified advocate on your specific facts.