Expanding Dimensions of Fundamental Rights in India: A Social Rights' Perspective

ABSTRACT The Indian Constitution, a living document, has evolved dynamically through judicial interpretations and legislative enactments. Fundamental Rights, enshrined in Part III of the Constitution, were initially envisaged as civil-political rights. However, over the decades, the Indian judiciary has expanded their contours to include socio-economic rights, thereby blurring the classical divide between civil-political and social rights. This paper explores the jurisprudential journey of Fundamental Rights in India from a social rights’ perspective, examining key judicial decisions, constitutional amendments, and the emerging recognition of rights such as education, health, and livelihood. It argues that while significant progress has been made, challenges remain in the effective realization of these rights. Keywords: Fundamental Rights, Social Rights, Indian Constitution, Judicial Activism, Right to Education, Right to Health, Right to Livelihood.