Why in news?
The Supreme Court on 10th January 2020, sought a response from the government to a petition for population control measures, including a two-child norm.
Background
- Delhi High Court dismissed a PIL (Public Interest Litigation) petition seeking urgent steps to control the country’s rising population.
- Petition was filed in Supreme Court by the advocate challenging the Delhi High Court’s decision to dismiss the PIL petition.
- A SC Bench issued notice to the government on the petition.
- High Court had refused to
intervene saying it was up to the legislature to enact laws.
- Contention was that the HC had failed to appreciate that the right to clean air, drinking water, health, peaceful sleep, shelter, livelihood and education, which are guaranteed under Articles 21 and 21A of the Constitution, could not be fully secured without controlling the population.
