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The Relationship between Transformative Constitutionalism and Human Rights in India | |||||||
Paper Id :
17716 Submission Date :
2023-06-04 Acceptance Date :
2023-06-10 Publication Date :
2023-06-12
This is an open-access research paper/article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited. For verification of this paper, please visit on
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Abstract |
The ideas of liberty, equality, justice, and fraternity are instilled in a society by the Constitution. By adopting these ideas, society thrives for the better. The Constitution is a document with the potential to significantly influence society. Instilling these ideas lays the groundwork for a more just and equal society. These principles are not merely high goals but necessary components of a functioning community. People are enabled to live their lives with dignity and respect when these ideals are woven into the fabric of society. They are free to follow their ambitions without fear of prejudice or oppression. As such, the Constitution stands as a light of hope for all who wish to live in a world where everyone is treated fairly and compassionately. As we work towards these goals, we must keep in mind that the Constitution is more than just a piece of paper; it is a living witness to our shared beliefs and aspirations as a nation.
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Keywords | Transformative Constitutionalism, Human Rights, Liberty, Equality, Justice. | ||||||
Introduction |
The first section examines the transformational elements of the Indian Constitution, as well as the role of the judiciary and the legislative actions implemented by the government to defend its values. The second section digs into the Constitution's concerns in a rapidly changing world, including issues of social justice, gender equality, and environmental protection. Despite these obstacles, the Constitution continues to be a beacon of hope and progress for all Indians, providing a foundation for democratic governance and individual rights. As we continue to negotiate the intricacies of modern life, it is critical to remember and work towards the principles entrenched in our Constitution. Only then will we be able to truly claim to be a nation that upholds justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity for all of its citizens.
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Objective of study | The study aims to evaluate the impact of our society’s ideals of liberty, and equality, The study aims to understand the influence of the values of liberty, equality, justice, and fraternity on our society and find areas for improvement. It also aims to understand how the Constitution is able to transform society. The study would also aim to understand transformative constitutionalism in the Indian Context. Transformative constitutionalism is especially pertinent in the Indian context since it strives to address historical injustices and foster social development. As a result of this research, we can better understand how constitutional principles can be applied to promote a more inclusive and democratic society. |
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Review of Literature | This research
paper is based on the latest cases and is updated statutes. So a separate
review of the literature is not required. |
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Main Text |
1. Transformative Constitutionalism 1.1 Definition and Principles Transformative constitutionalism is a constitutional
strategy that tries to effect social and political change by resolving past
injustices and fostering substantive equality and justice. Its values include
inclusion, progressive interpretation, and the empowerment of marginalised
communities.[1] 1.2 Historical Context and Evolution Transformative constitutionalism arose in post-apartheid
South Africa with the goal of transitioning from an oppressive regime to a just
and inclusive society. It has since acquired acceptance and application in a
number of nations, including India. Transformative constitutionalism and its
seeds in India may be traced back to the historic case of Kesavananda Bharti v.
State of Kerela[2], in which the bench provided some striking insights into the
progressive colour of our constitution. Mr. S.M. Sikri, then-Chief Justice of
India, noted that “the basic structure of the Constitution is not a rigid or
static concept.”[3] It is dynamic and fluid and must be understood in light of
society’s changing requirements. Khanna, J. It is a living tool that “the
people of India have used to fulfil their aims and aspirations.”[4]Y.V.
Chandrachud. J., also observed that “The Constitution is not a mere mechanism
for the governance of the country. It is a charter of social, economic and
political justice.”[5] 1.3 Human Rights Human rights encompass the fundamental rights and
freedoms inherent to all individuals, regardless of their race, religion,
gender, or other characteristics. They include civil, political, economic,
social, and cultural rights that are protected both domestically and
internationally. They are a set of standards that govern how individuals and
groups are treated by states and non-state entities based on moral precepts
pertaining to what society deems essential to a decent living.[6] These
standards are included in national and international legal frameworks, which
define the steps to be taken to hold duty-bearers accountable and offer
compensation to those who may have been the victims of human rights breaches. 1.3.1 International Human Rights Standards International human rights standards provide a framework
for the protection and promotion of human rights. India is a signatory to
various international conventions and treaties, such as the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and
Political Rights, which shape its approach to human rights. 2. Transformative Constitutionalism in India 2.1 Transformative Features of the Indian Constitution The Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to
its citizens, including the right to equality, freedom of speech and
expression, and the right to life and personal liberty. The Directive
Principles of State Policy provide a roadmap for transformative governance by
emphasizing social and economic justice. The ruling in National Legal Service Authority’s[7]
case was founded on transformative constitutionalism, which maintains that the
Constitution should be construed to advance equality and social transformation.[8] The Supreme Court ruled that all citizens, regardless of
gender identification, are entitled to the Fundamental Rights enumerated in the
Constitution, including the rights to equality, to life, and to freedom.[9] The
Court also ruled that the State has a responsibility to defend the rights of
transgender individuals and to make sure they have access to services like
healthcare, employment, and education on an equitable basis.[10] Another case known as Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of
India[11]that criminalised same-sex relationships, was founded on
transformative constitutionalism's tenets, which state that the Constitution
should be interpreted to advance equality and social progress.[12] The Indian
Penal Code's Section 377, which made same-sex sexual behaviour illegal, was
declared unconstitutional by the court. 2.2 Independence of the Judiciary Because of its autonomy and forward-thinking approach to
interpreting the Constitution, the judicial system in India plays a critical
role in the development of transformative constitutionalism. It serves as a
watchdog on fundamental rights and guarantees that the government is adhering
to the ideals outlined in the constitution.[13] The Supreme Court further in
Advocates-on-Record Association, a group that represents attorneys who appear
before the Supreme Court, filed the lawsuit challenging the validity of the
process for choosing Supreme Court judges. The Prime Minister and the Leader of
the Opposition were to have a bigger say in the nomination of judges after the
government changed the Constitution to include a new process. The modified
procedure, according to the Supreme Court, was unconstitutional since it
contravened the judiciary's independence and the separation of powers.[14] In a recent case of Supreme Court Advocates on Record
Association v. Union of India[15] also known as the fourth judges cases,
the Hon’ble Apex Court was prayed to review the The National Judicial
Appointments Commission (NJAC) Act of
2014. The act abolished the old collegium system for choosing judges for
the Supreme Court and the High Courts. The Chief Justice of India would
recommend names of judges for appointment to the Supreme Court and the High
Courts under the collegium system, after consultation with other senior judges.
On the other hand, the NJAC Act established a new entity, the NJAC, which was
tasked with making recommendations for judges to be appointed to the Supreme
Court and the High Courts.[16] 2.3 Role of the Judiciary in Advancing Transformative
Constitutionalism 2.3.1 Judicial Activism and Public Interest Litigation In India, a substantial amount of transformative
constitutionalism may be attributed, in large part, to the role that judicial
activism has played, particularly through the process of public interest
litigation. The judicial system has become involved in matters of public
interest, frequently addressing breaches of human rights and advancing the
cause of social justice. In the case of Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India[17],
the Supreme Court of India went beyond a literal interpretation of the law to
defend and advance individual rights. This case is a notable example of
judicial activism because it exhibits judicial activism at its finest. By
taking a comprehensive and all-encompassing approach to the analysis of Article
21, the court was able to actively protect basic rights and develop the concept
of substantive due process in Indian law.[18] The court determined that the right to privacy is
integral to human dignity and is necessary for realising other fundamental
rights. This important decision signalled a significant shift in Indian
constitutional law by recognising the flexibility of fundamental rights to
adapt to shifting social norms.[19] The court also used transformative
constitutionalism's tenets, which emphasise how the Constitution can be
transformed to solve social injustices and advance the goals of justice,
equality, and human dignity. It emphasised that any invasion of privacy must
pass the necessary and proportionality standards and acknowledged the need to
strike a balance between individual privacy and the legal interests of the
state.[20] The Supreme Court actively shaped public policy and upheld
fundamental rights in this decision, which displayed judicial activism. In
order to strike a balance between the goals of the government and the rights of
individuals to their privacy, the court set some limitations on the Aadhaar
programme. It disallowed Aadhaar's obligatory integration with critical
services, placed an emphasis on informed consent and data protection
safeguards, and imposed data usage restrictions.[21] 2.3.2 Expansive Interpretation of Fundamental Rights The judiciary has adopted an expansive interpretation of
fundamental rights, going beyond their literal meanings to include the right to
a clean environment, right to education, and right to privacy. This approach
has contributed to the transformative nature of the Constitution. For example in Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan[22]
the Hon’ble Supreme Court taking a proactive stance in tackling this issue,
called the attention to the lack of explicit legislation addressing workplace
sexual harassment. The Indian Constitution's Articles 14 (right to equality)
and 21 (right to life and personal liberty) both recognise gender equality as a
basic right, according to the court.[23] 2.3.3 Judicial Review of Legislation The power of judicial review enables the judiciary to
assess the constitutionality of laws and policies. This process ensures that
legislation aligns with constitutional principles, including human rights
standards. The Hon'ble Apex Court addressed the constitutionality of the
federal government's ability to impose President's Rule under Article 356 in
its ruling of S.R. Bommai v.Union of India[24], the court emphasised the
value of constitutional balance and federalism in a democratic system. In order
to prevent President's Rule from being abused as a political instrument, it was
decided that its imposition is subject to judicial review. To control the use
of authority granted by Article 356 of the Constitution, the court set rules. It
was decided that only in extreme cases, such as where there has been a
constitutional breakdown, can the authority to overthrow a validly elected
state government and impose President's Rule be used. The court further stated
that verifiable evidence, not subjective judgement, must underpin the
President's and the central government's satisfaction with the breakdown.[25]
In the framework of transformational constitutionalism, this case is
significant because it reiterates the value of federalism and the division of
powers between the federal government and the states. It acknowledges that the
Constitution ought to be read and applied in a way that promotes equity,
justice, and the values of democratic government.[26] Regarding the idea of judicial review of laws, the case
serves as an example of the judiciary's function as the protector of the
Constitution and of its authority to examine and overturn decisions made by the
executive and legislative branches. The court's directives in the Bommai
case ensure that the central government's exercise of its legislative
authority under Article 356 is subject to review and must comply with
constitutional norms. 2.4 Legislative Measures Promoting Transformative
Constitutionalism 2.4.1 Social Welfare Legislation India has enacted numerous social welfare laws to address
societal inequalities and promote social justice. These laws aim to uplift
marginalized communities and provide them with access to basic amenities,
education, healthcare, and social security. Following are some examples of
social welfare legislations which exhibit the idea of transformative
constitutionalism: i. Right to Education Act (2009)[27]: All children
between the ages of 6 and 14 are entitled to free and compulsory education
under the ground breaking Right to Education Act. It acknowledges education as
a fundamental right and works to remove obstacles in the way of education,
especially for underprivileged and marginalised groups in society. The emphasis
of the Act is on quality standards, inclusive education, and the outlawing of
discrimination in schools. ii. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee
Act (2005)[28]: To ensure livelihood stability and reduce poverty, this act
requires rural households to have a minimum of 100 days of employment per year.
By enabling access to employment opportunities, competitive pay, and social
security benefits, it supports the right to work and strengthens rural
communities. The act aims to reduce economic inequalities and give marginalised
groups in society more authority. iii. Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act
(2005)[29]: Women who are victims of domestic violence have legal protection
and redress thanks to this law. It identifies domestic abuse as a violation of
the fundamental rights of women and offers channels for reporting, seeking
redress, and receiving support. The Act attempts to change social perceptions
of women's rights and gender equality, empower women, and combat gender-based
violence. iv. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of
Atrocities) Act (1989)[30]: This law was passed to stop violence and prejudice
against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes on the basis of caste. It makes
certain actions unlawful, including atrocities, discrimination, and social
boycotts, and it offers special courts and harsh penalties for offenders. The
act aims to remedy past societal injustices while defending the rights and
dignity of underrepresented groups. v. Maternity Benefit Act (1961)[31]: This law ensures
that women will receive certain benefits during pregnancy and after delivery,
such as maternity leave, medical benefits, and nursing breaks. It strives to
foster work-life balance, advance gender equality in the workplace, and
safeguard the health and well-being of women and their children. The law
promotes a more welcoming and friendly workplace by recognising the rights and
needs of female employees. 2.4.2 Affirmative Action and Reservation Policies Affirmative action policies, such as reservations in
educational institutions and public employment, are implemented to address
historical discrimination and ensure the representation and participation of
marginalized groups. Following are some examples of ‘affirmative action and
reservation policies’ which exhibit the idea of transformative
constitutionalism: i. Reservations for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled
Tribes: The Indian Constitution guarantees reservations for Scheduled Castes
(SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in government positions, political
representation, and educational institutions. These historically
underrepresented communities are intended to be uplifted and given
opportunities for social and economic growth under the affirmative action
programme. ii. Reservations for Other Backward Classes (OBCs): In
addition to SC/ST reservations, India also enacts reservations for OBCs in
educational institutions and government positions. By addressing the social and
educational difficulties that socially and economically underdeveloped
communities experience, the OBC reservation hopes to foster their participation
and upward mobility. iii. Reservation for Women: Several Indian state
governments have implemented reserves for women in panchayats (village
councils) and municipalities, two examples of local government entities. By
giving them a voice in decision-making processes and addressing gender
imbalances in governance, this strategy seeks to increase women's political
representation and engagement. iv. In order to provide equal access to education, India
has introduced reservation regulations in educational institutions, including
colleges and universities. According to these policies, disadvantaged groups
including SCs, STs, OBCs, and economically weaker sections (EWS) are given a
fixed proportion of seats. This helps close the achievement gap and opens doors
for formerly underprivileged groups in society. v. Quota for Economically Weaker portions (EWS): In 2019,
the Indian government implemented a 10% quota in educational institutions and
government posts for the economically weaker portions of the general category.
With the help of this strategy, people from economically disadvantaged
backgrounds will have access to educational and career possibilities while also
addressing the economic imbalances they currently confront. 3. Human Rights Protection in India The Indian Constitution guarantees a range of fundamental
rights, including equality before the law, freedom of speech and expression,
and protection against discrimination. The judiciary has played a crucial role
in expanding the scope of these rights to ensure their effective protection.
under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. The judiciary has also interpreted
the Right to Livelihood under the Article 21 expansively.[32] 3.1.2 Right to Equality The right to equality prohibits discrimination based on
various grounds, including religion, caste, gender, and disability. The
Constitution and subsequent legislation provide safeguards to protect
individuals from discrimination and promote equal opportunities. Through the
interpretations of Article 14, 15 and 16, have expanded the scope and
understanding of equality, ensuring that it is not limited to more formal
equality but encompasses substantive equality as well. The judiciary has
emphasised that equality does not mean treating everyone alike, but rather
ensuring equal treatment under similar circumstances and eliminating
discriminatory practices.[33] 3.1.3 Right to Life and Personal Liberty The judiciary has interpreted these rights expansively to
protect individual autonomy and dignity. 3.1.4 Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression The right to freedom of speech and expression is
essential for a thriving democracy. It allows individuals to express their
opinions and ideas, criticize the government, and participate in public
discourse. The judiciary has upheld this right as vital for transformative
constitutionalism. 3.2 Judicial Safeguards for Human Rights 3.2.1 Public Interest Litigation and Judicial Activism Public interest litigation has been instrumental in
safeguarding human rights in India. The role of the judiciary is important in
upholding the rule of law, protecting fundamental rights and ensuring the
impartiality and integrity of the judicial system. In S.P. Gupta v President
of India &Ors[34], the court accentuated that any interference in the
functioning of the judiciary should be based on valid grounds and not undermine
its independence. In another case, In Re: S. Mulgaokar[35] the Supreme
Court highlighted the importance of maintain public confidence in the judiciary
while protecting the integrity of the judicial system. 3.2.2 Judicial Review of Legislation Judicial review provides a mechanism for assessing the
constitutionality of legislation and ensuring its compatibility with human rights
standards. The judiciary's power to strike down unconstitutional laws
contributes to the protection of human rights in India. The judiciary acts as
the guardian of the Constitution and ensures that legislation is in accordance
with its provisions. In Keshavananda Bharti[36], the court held that
power of Parliament to amend the Constitution is not unlimited. In the case
known as the Aadhar case,[37] the Supreme court struck down certain provisions
of the Aadhar Act asunconstitutional, protecting privacy rights and imposing
safeguards to prevent potential misuse of personal data.3.3 Legislative
Measures Safeguarding Human Rights 3.3.1 Protection of Civil Liberties Various laws and provisions safeguard civil liberties,
such as the right to privacy, freedom of religion, and protection against
arbitrary arrest and detention. These measures aim to protect individuals from
state intrusion and uphold their fundamental rights. Because it placed too many limits on free speech and
discouraged online expression, the Supreme Court in the case of Shreya
Singhal v. Union of India[38] declared Section 66A of the Information
Technology Act[39] to be unconstitutional. The court emphasised the value of
free expression in a democratic society and acknowledged the Constitution's
transformative power. The ruling emphasised the necessity for a flexible and
dynamic reading of the Constitution that takes into account shifting social
conditions. The Constitution should not be viewed as static but rather as a
tool for societal change and advancement, the court emphasised. This case is a
prime example of transformative constitutionalism since it emphasises the value
of defending individual rights, notably freedom of speech, and making sure that
constitutional principles keep up with modern developments in technology. The
court's ruling in this case helped to advance an inclusive and transformational
society while also defending civil liberties in the digital era. 3.3.2 Anti-Discrimination Laws India has enacted legislation to combat discrimination
based on caste, religion, gender, and other grounds. These laws provide legal
remedies and protections to marginalized communities and ensure their inclusion
in society. i. The Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955[40]: This law
was passed to combat untouchability, a pervasive type of caste-based
discrimination. It makes untouchability-related practises illegal and
stipulates how violators should be punished. The act also contains measures for
the defence of SC and STs' and the enforcement of civil rights. ii. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act,
2016[41]: The 1995 Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection
of Rights, and Full Participation) Act was replaced with this comprehensive
piece of legislation. By ensuring that people with disabilities have equal
opportunities in a variety of living sectors, such as education, employment,
and accessibility, it seeks to advance their rights and inclusion. The statute
emphasises people with disabilities' empowerment and engagement in society
while acknowledging their different needs. iii. The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006[42]: The
purpose of this law is to stop child marriages and defend the rights of kids,
especially females. It penalises individuals responsible for organising or
solemnising child marriages and declares child marriage voidable. The statute
aims to advance gender equality and children's welfare while acknowledging the
harm that child marriages entail. iv. The Equal Remuneration Act, 1976[43]: This law
forbids gender-based discrimination in employment and pay. It fosters gender
equality in the workplace and assures equal compensation for equal labour. The
act forbids gender discrimination in hiring, advancement, and wage-payment
practises, advancing the transformative objective of gender justice and
empowerment. v. The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act,
2019[44]: The rights and protection of transgender people in India are
acknowledged by this statute. It forbids discrimination against transgender people
and guarantees their right to self-determination in terms of gender, as well as
access to healthcare, education, employment, and welfare programmes. 3.3.3 Rights of Marginalized and Vulnerable Communities |
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Conclusion |
In India, there is a complex and dynamic link between transformational constitutionalism and human rights. The Indian Constitution, with its revolutionary elements and forward-thinking clauses, establishes the framework for social justice and the defence of human rights. However, there are considerable obstacles that must be addressed in order to effectively realise transformative constitutionalism and protect human rights.
The judicial system's ongoing case backlog is one of the biggest problems. In addition to delaying justice, the backlog limits the constitution's ability to change society. In order to confront social inequities, human rights breaches, and advance revolutionary change, lawsuits must be resolved quickly. To reduce the backlog and provide prompt justice, efforts must be taken to expand the number of judges, modernise court procedures, and promote alternative conflict resolution techniques.
Transformative constitutionalism and the defence of human rights in India are further hampered by ineffective law enforcement and enforcement gaps. Although progressive legislation is present, it is inconsistently applied. The establishment of adequate systems for observing and guaranteeing adherence to human rights standards is necessary. To close enforcement gaps, it is vital to strengthen law enforcement organisations, enhance capacity-building initiatives, and raise public understanding of rights.
Another pressing problem that needs to be addressed in the framework of human rights and transformative constitutionalism is gender inequality. Despite constitutional protections, women in India nevertheless experience numerous forms of violence, discrimination, and socioeconomic inequality. By enacting gender-sensitive legislation, empowering women via education and economic opportunities, and challenging cultural norms and attitudes that support gender-based discrimination, transformative constitutionalism is required to overcome these gender inequities.
The safeguarding of human rights and transformational constitutionalism are gravely threatened by socioeconomic inequities. Despite the fact that the Constitution envisions a society that is just and egalitarian, the reality is characterised by stark socioeconomic inequalities. For marginalised communities in particular, access to chances for employment, healthcare, and education remains unequal. The government must give priority to policies and initiatives that address these inequities, uplift marginalised groups, and secure equal opportunities for all if it is to truly accomplish transformational constitutionalism.
Both India's transformational constitutionalism and its commitment to human rights are threatened by intercommunal tensions and conflict. The effective realisation of constitutional objectives and the preservation of human rights depend on religious and societal peace. In order to achieve this, interfaith communication must be strengthened, tolerance must be encouraged, and hate speech and discrimination based on religion or group identity must be stopped.
In conclusion, there are a number of issues that need to be resolved in order to defend human rights and practise transformative constitutionalism in India. The successful implementation of transformational constitutionalism and the preservation of human rights are both hampered by the backlog of cases, enforcement gaps, gender discrimination, socioeconomic disparities, and intercommunal violence. However, India can overcome these obstacles and get closer to the transformative vision of the Constitution by making concerted efforts, such as judicial reforms, strong enforcement mechanisms, gender-sensitive policies, addressing socio-economic disparities, and encouraging communal harmony. This will help to foster a society that upholds human rights and social justice for all.
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Endnote | 1. See Baxi, U. (2006). Transformative constitutionalism: Some preliminary remarks. International Journal of Constitutional Law, 4(1), 3-36. 2. AIR 1973 SC 1461 3. Ibid. 4. Ibid 5. Ibid 6. Human Rights: A brief introduction by Marks, Stephens.P., available at: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/07/Human-Rights-A-brief-intro-2017.pdf 7. National Legal Service Authority v. Union of India, AIR 2014 SC 1863 8. Ibid 9. Ibid 10. Ibid 11. AIR 2018 SC 4321 12. Ibid 13. S.P. Gupta v. Union of India, AIR 1982 SC 149 14. Ibid 15. (2016) 5 SCC 1 16. Ibid 17. AIR 1978 SC 59. 18. Ibid. 19. K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India, (2017) 10 SCC 1. 20. Ibid 21. Ibid 22. (1997) 6 SCC 241 23. Ibid 24. (1994) 2 SCR 644 25. Ibid 26. Ibid 27. Act No. 35 of 2009 28. Act No. 42 of 2005 29. Act No. 43 of 2005 30. Act No. 33 of 1989 31. Act No. 53 of 1961 32. Olga Tellis&ors v Bombay Municipal Corporation, 1986 AIR 180. 33. Indra Sawhney v UOI AIR 1993 SC 477. 34. AIR 1982 SC 149. 35. (1978) 3 SCC 339. 36. Ibid. 37. Supra note 17. 38. AIR 2015 SC 1523 39. Act No. 21 of 2000 40. Act no. 22 of 1995 41. Act no 49 of2016 42. Act No 6 of 2007 43. Act No. 25 of 1976 44. Act No. 40 of 2019 45. 1987 AIR 1086. 46. Indira Gandhi v Raj Narain Appeal (Civil) 887 of 1975. 47. 1984 AIR 802. 48. 1979 AIR 1369. 49. Supra note 19. 50. Civil No. 373 of 2006. |