What do you understand by PIL or Public Interest Litigation?

The concept and procedure, as well as the relief under Public Interest Litigation have been fashioned by the Supreme Court of India. The public interest litigation has been initiated by some Judges of the Supreme Court themselves. The Supreme Court has opened a new chapter on public litigation. Merely on a postcard or application the complaints are registered and necessary orders passed. Under the former Chief Justice P.N. Bhagwati’s leadership, Public Interest Litigation acquired a new dimension. Under this scheme, the grievances of weaker sections, bonded labourers, women and children have been given due importance. Public Interest Litigation scheme has been used to provide reliefs for undertrial prisoners in jails, acquisition of cycle rickshaws by licensed riskshaw pullers, prohibition of human trafficking etc.