My Mysuru locality has had no piped water for months. Is the right to water a constitutional right?

Detailed Legal Analysis

The right to water has been recognized as a fundamental right under the Constitution of India, particularly as an extension of the right to life under Article 21.

In various landmark judgments, the Supreme Court of India has emphasized the importance of the right to clean water for leading a dignified life. Here are some key points regarding this constitutional right:

• Article 21 of the Constitution: This article guarantees the right to life and personal liberty. The Supreme Court has interpreted this right to include the right to access clean drinking water.
• Judicial Pronouncements:
  • In Francis Coralie Mullin v. Union Territory of Delhi (1981), the Supreme Court held that the right to life includes the right to live with human dignity, which encompasses access to basic necessities like water.
  • The case of Dehradun v. State of Uttarakhand (2011) further reiterated that the right to water is essential for the realization of the right to life.
• National Water Policy, 2012: This policy emphasizes the need for equitable access to water resources, aiming to ensure that all citizens have access to sufficient clean water.
• Judicial Responsibility: Citizens can approach the courts if they are deprived of their right to water. Public Interest Litigations (PILs) can be filed to seek enforcement of the right to water.

In light of these aspects, if your locality in Mysuru has been without piped water for months, it may be necessary to take action. Here are steps you can consider:

• Raise Awareness: Bring the issue to the attention of local authorities and public representatives.
• File a Complaint: Submit a formal complaint to the local municipality or the water supply department regarding the lack of piped water.
• Public Interest Litigation: If the issue persists, consider filing a PIL in the High Court of Karnataka to compel the government to ensure the provision of water.

In conclusion, the right to water is indeed a constitutional right in India, and there are legal avenues available for citizens to claim this right when faced with shortages or deprivation.