Q. With reference to the interpretation of Article 21 by the Supreme Court of India, consider the following statements:
1.The expression “procedure established by law” under Article 21 protects individuals only from arbitrary legislative action.
2.The Supreme Court has held that digital access is an essential component of the Right to Life under Article 21.
3.The scope of Article 21 has expanded to include rights such as the right to sleep and the right to electricity.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: A
Notes:
Explanation:
- In the Gopalan case (1950), Article 21 was interpreted to protect individuals only from arbitrary executive action, not legislative action. It was later expanded by the Menaka Gandhi case to include protection from arbitrary legislative action as well.
- The Supreme Court has recognized digital access—including internet connectivity—as essential to meaningful participation in modern life and thus a component of the Right to Life under Article 21.
- The Court has interpreted Article 21 to include various socio-economic and dignitarian rights, including the right to sleep, electricity, privacy, health, and more.
Source: Laxmikant (Polity)
