SHORT ANSWER:
Public Interest Litigations (PILs) allow individuals or groups to file petitions in court for the protection of public interest, holding government officials accountable.
DETAILS:
- PILs can be filed for issues affecting the environment, human rights, and social justice.
- They enable citizens to seek judicial intervention when government actions are harmful or neglectful.
- The Supreme Court and High Courts can take up PILs even if the petitioner is not directly affected.
PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable):
- If found guilty of negligence or misconduct, government officials may face legal consequences or orders from the court.
SOURCE:
- Supreme Court of India, Public Interest Litigation guidelines.
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