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International Journal of Advanced Research in Education and TechnologY(IJARETY)
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Article

TITLE Expanding Dimensions of the Right to Life under Article 21 of the Constitution of India: From Animal Existence to Human Dignity
ABSTRACT Article 21 of the Constitution of India guarantees the fundamental right to life and personal liberty and occupies a central position in the constitutional framework of human rights protection. In its initial phase, the interpretation of Article 21 was narrow and restrictive, confining the right to life to mere physical existence and subjecting it strictly to the “procedure established by law.” However, with the progressive and purposive interpretation adopted by the Supreme Court of India, Article 21 has evolved into a dynamic and expansive provision that embodies the essence of human dignity. The judiciary has consistently emphasized that the right to life does not mean mere animal existence but includes the right to live with dignity, autonomy, and meaningful enjoyment of life. This research paper examines the expanding dimensions of the right to life under Article 21, tracing its evolution from a limited constitutional safeguard to a comprehensive repository of human rights. Through an analytical study of landmark judicial decisions, the paper highlights how the Supreme Court has interpreted “life” to include a wide range of socio-economic and civil rights such as the right to livelihood, health, education, shelter, clean environment, privacy, reputation, and access to justice. These judicial interpretations reflect the constitutional vision of a welfare state and reinforce the idea that human dignity is the core value underlying Article 21. The paper further explores the role of judicial activism and public interest litigation in extending the protective scope of Article 21 to marginalized and vulnerable sections of society, including prisoners, women, children, and the economically disadvantaged. It also discusses emerging dimensions of the right to life in the context of technological advancement, environmental concerns, and the right to die with dignity. While acknowledging the transformative role played by the judiciary, the study critically evaluates the challenges associated with implementation, judicial overreach, and the absence of comprehensive legislative support. The paper concludes that Article 21 has transcended its original textual limitations and has become the soul of the Indian Constitution, ensuring not only survival but a dignified and meaningful human existence. The continued expansion of its horizons remains essential for safeguarding human rights in a rapidly changing society.
AUTHOR Prerna Murlidhar Ale Research Scholar, Department of Law, Monad University, Hapur, Uttar Pradesh, India
VOLUME 12
DOI DOI:10.15680/IJARETY.2025.1204092
PDF 92_Expanding Dimensions of the Right to Life under Article 21 of the Constitution of India From Animal Existence to Human Dignity.pdf
KEYWORDS
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