<h4>Introduction to the Right to Shelter</h4><p>The <strong>Right to Shelter</strong> is not explicitly mentioned as a fundamental right in the Indian Constitution. However, the <strong>Supreme Court of India</strong> has, through various landmark judgments, interpreted it as an integral part of the <strong>Right to Life</strong> guaranteed under <strong>Article 21</strong>.</p><p>This interpretation reflects a progressive understanding of fundamental rights, extending beyond mere physical existence to encompass a dignified quality of life.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>The <strong>Right to Life (Article 21)</strong> is broadly interpreted to include the right to live with human dignity, which necessitates basic amenities like shelter, food, and clothing.</p></div><h4>The Haldwani Encroachment Case</h4><p>Recently, the <strong>Supreme Court</strong> addressed a significant case involving the removal of alleged encroachers from <strong>railway land</strong> in <strong>Haldwani, Uttarakhand</strong>. The case highlighted a crucial conflict between infrastructure development and the fundamental rights of citizens.</p><p>The Court emphasized the need to strike a delicate <strong>balance</strong> between the state's interest in developing essential railway infrastructure and the fundamental right to shelter for the affected individuals.</p><div class='info-box'><p>The <strong>Haldwani case</strong> involved thousands of residents facing eviction from land claimed by <strong>Indian Railways</strong>, raising concerns about displacement and rehabilitation.</p></div><h4>Judicial Pronouncement and Future Implications</h4><p>While upholding the importance of the right to shelter, the <strong>Supreme Court</strong> also issued a clear caveat. It stated that its orders should not be misinterpreted as an encouragement for <strong>future encroachments</strong> on public land.</p><p>This aspect underscores the judiciary's commitment to maintaining the rule of law and preventing illegal occupation, even while protecting fundamental rights.</p><div class='exam-tip-box'><p>For <strong>UPSC Mains GS-II</strong>, understanding this balance is crucial. Questions may involve judicial activism, fundamental rights, and the role of the state in providing social welfare versus protecting public property.</p></div>