A New Dawn for Environmental Justice: Supreme Court Recognizes the Fundamental Right Against Climate Change

Meta Description (SEO):
The Supreme Court of India, in M.K. Ranjitsinh v. Union of India, has recognized the constitutional right against climate change under Articles 14 and 21. Learn how this landmark judgment strengthens environmental justice and citizen rights.

In a transformative judgment that will redefine environmental litigation in India, the Hon’ble Supreme Court, in M.K. Ranjitsinh & Ors. vs. Union of India, has expanded the scope of fundamental rights by holding that:

The right to life under Article 21 and the right to equality under Article 14 include the right to be protected from the adverse effects of climate change.

This ruling marks one of the most powerful judicial affirmations of environmental justice in India’s constitutional history.

Climate Change Recognized as a Constitutional Harm

Although the case originated from efforts to protect the Great Indian Bustard from overhead power lines, the Court’s reasoning extends far beyond wildlife conservation. It acknowledges:

Climate change directly affects health, food security, water resources, and livelihoods

Environmental instability violates the right to live with dignity

The State has a positive constitutional duty to mitigate climate-related risks

Impact on Citizens: What This Judgment Empowers You To Do
1. Stronger Public Interest Litigations (PILs)

• Citizens now have explicit constitutional backing to challenge:
• Polluting industries
• Deforestation and land-use changes
• Poorly planned infrastructure
• Government decisions that increase carbon emissions

2. Local Environmental Damage = Violation of Fundamental Rights

• Any project or policy contributing to environmental degradation may now be challenged as a constitutional infringement, not merely a regulatory violation.

3. Positive Duty on the State

• The government must now:
• Create climate-resilient policies
• Reduce carbon emissions
• Protect vulnerable communities
• Ensure sustainable development

Conclusion: A Powerful Constitutional Shield Against Climate Harm

The Supreme Court’s judgment affirms that a stable environment is essential to a life of dignity. Every citizen now has a stronger legal foundation to demand environmental protection.

If climate change, pollution, deforestation, or development projects are impacting your community, this ruling significantly strengthens your legal remedies.

For expert guidance on filing PILs, compliance, or environmental litigation, Justicelawpartner is equipped to assist.

Binay Kumar
Advocate, Supreme Court of India