Article 14 of the Constitution of India and Protection of Environment

The Indian Constitution and global declarations prioritize the right to equality in environmental issues. Article 14 provides protection against arbitrary state action, guaranteeing equality before the law. It ensures that discriminatory behaviour is prohibited, and there is fairness and predictability in the administration of the law. The rule of law requires governmental discretion to be bounded by set limits, ensuring transparency and accountability. The recent landmark ruling in M.K. Ranjitsinh v. Union of India acknowledges a constitutional right to be safe from the negative effects of climate change, based on Articles 21 and 14. This reflects an evolving legal framework that combines environmental protection with fundamental rights.