Right against climate change a fundamental right, says SC

The Supreme Court has recognised the right against the adverse effects of climate change as a distinct fundamental right in the Constitution.

It is recognised by Articles 14 (right to equality) and 21 (right to life),” the Supreme Court observed in a judgment recently.

The judgment came in a case connected with the survival of the endangered Great Indian Bustard species.

Linking the right against climate change to Articles 21 and 14, the Chief Justice of India said the rights to life and equality could not be fully realised without a clean, stable environment.

The court also highlighted the interconnection between climate change and various human rights, including the right to health, indigenous rights, gender equality, and the right to development.