A significant judicial intervention has been made by the Bombay High Court, where the lack of sanitation facilities in Govandi’s Buddha Nagar slum has been linked directly to the violation of fundamental rights. Strong observations were recorded by the court while examining the living conditions of slum residents, particularly the acute shortage and poor maintenance of public toilets in the area.
The issue was brought before the court through a petition highlighting the alarming mismatch between population size and available sanitation infrastructure. It was brought to the court’s attention that a settlement housing more than 4,000 residents was being served by a highly inadequate number of toilet seats. Photographic evidence placed on record revealed toilet blocks in a severely dilapidated and unhygienic state, raising serious public health concerns.
During the proceedings, it was clearly stated that civic responsibilities cannot be abandoned on the basis that the settlement stands on encroached land. The court underscored that statutory obligations under municipal law remain enforceable irrespective of the legal status of the land. It was observed that classifying an area as a slum does not absolve authorities of their duty to provide essential services.
The constitutional dimension of sanitation was strongly emphasised, with the court reiterating that access to toilets and hygiene facilities forms an inseparable part of the right to life and dignity under Article 21. It was noted that inadequate sanitation exposes residents to disease, indignity, and unsafe living conditions, which cannot be tolerated in a constitutional framework.
Clear and time-bound directions were issued to the municipal authorities. Existing toilet blocks were ordered to be repaired immediately, while additional facilities were to be constructed within two months after identifying suitable open spaces within the slum. The importance of daily upkeep, hygiene supervision, and proper maintenance was specifically highlighted to prevent further deterioration.
Beyond sanitation, broader civic responsibilities were also outlined. It was stressed that slum residents are equally entitled to clean water supply and basic health safeguards. The court warned that any failure to ensure these essential services would amount to a breach of fundamental rights and constitutional obligations. While disposing of the petition, the court issued a firm directive that all instructions must be implemented strictly within the stipulated timeline.