SHORT ANSWER:
Public Interest Litigation (PIL) allows individuals or groups to file petitions in court for the protection of public interest and fundamental rights.
DETAILS:
- PIL can be filed by any individual or organization on behalf of those unable to approach the court.
- It addresses issues like environmental protection, human rights violations, and social justice.
- The Supreme Court and High Courts have expanded the scope of PIL to include various social issues.
PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable):
- There are no specific punishments for filing PILs, but frivolous PILs can lead to penalties or dismissal.
SOURCE:
- Supreme Court of India guidelines on Public Interest Litigation.
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