Walking on footpaths is a fundamental rights

Prelims:

  Polity, Governance

Mains:

  GS Paper I – Society, GS Paper II – Polity & Governance, GS Paper III – Infrastructure

Current relevance:

      The Supreme Court has declared that the right to walk safely on demarcated and well-maintained footpaths is a fundamental right.

Supreme Court's Key Observations:

1. The right to walk safely on designated footpaths is an integral part of Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty).
2. The Court held that the fundamental right to walk overrides the privilege of motorized transport.

Key constitutional provisions:

•   Article 21 – Right to Life and Personal Liberty

              Encompasses the right to safe, dignified, and unhindered pedestrian movement.

•   Article 19(1)(d) – Freedom of Movement

             Guarantees the right of citizens to move freely throughout the territory of India.

Other provisions:

• Article 19(1)(a), 19(1)(b) and 19(1)(c)

Walking enables the exercise of: 

1. Freedom of speech and expression. 
2. Freedom of peaceful assembly. 
3. Freedom of association.

 Need for Statutory Protection of Pedestrian Rights:

   The Court recommended the establishment of a full-time regulatory authority for pedestrian rights.

  The regulatory body would: 

1. Plan pedestrian infrastructure
2. Monitor implementation
3. Enforce standards
4. Address grievances
5. Promote safe and accessible footpaths

Source: THE HINDU https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/supreme-court-declares-the-right-to-walk-carefree-on-footpaths-a-fundamental-right/article71121451.ece