How does Article 21 of the Indian Constitution relate to the Right to Privacy, especially after the Supreme Court’s verdict in Justice K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017)?

Article 21 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the fundamental right to life and personal liberty, stating that "no person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law." This right has been interpreted expansively by the Supreme Court over the years, evolving to protect various dimensions of individual rights, including the right to privacy. The landmark judgment in *Justice K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India* (2017) significantly reaffirmed this interpretation, declaring that the right to privacy is a fundamental right protected under Article 21.

In the Puttaswamy case, the Supreme Court held that privacy is an intrinsic aspect of the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21. The Court emphasized that privacy encompasses the right to make personal decisions regarding one's body, relationships, and information. This means that individuals have the control over their personal data and the authority to make choices without interference from the state or third parties. The judgment articulated how privacy is essential for the exercise of other rights, including freedom of expression and the right to association.

To understand the practical implications of this ruling, individuals should be aware that any governmental action or legislation that infringes upon the right to privacy must meet a threefold test: it must be backed by law, serve a legitimate aim, and be proportionate to the objective pursued. This framework can be crucial for individuals seeking to challenge arbitrary or invasive actions by the state or private entities. For instance, if a government surveillance program unjustifiably intrudes into the personal lives of citizens, individuals can seek remedies through public interest litigations (PIL) or other appropriate legal channels, invoking the principles laid down in the Puttaswamy judgment.

In summary, Article 21 and the Puttaswamy judgment collectively strengthen the framework for privacy rights in India, ensuring that individuals are afforded protection against arbitrary actions that could infringe upon their personal liberty. Citizens should remain vigilant about their privacy rights and seek legal recourse if those rights are violated, utilizing the robust framework established by the Supreme Court's interpretation of Article 21.