What is "Public interest Litigation"?

"Public interest Litigation" or PIL is a litigation filed in a court of law, for the protection of "Public Interest", such as pollution, terrorism, road safety, constructional hazards etc. PIL can be filed for the following reasons:-

• Violation of basic human rights of the poor
• Content or conduct of government policy
• Compel municipal authorities to perform a public duty
• Violation of religious rights or other basic fundamental rights

Any individual or organisation can file a PIL in the High Court or the SupremeCourt on behalf of those whose rights are being violated. It is not necessary, that the person filing a case should have a direct interest in the case.