Menaka Gandhi case

Maneka Gandhi vs Union of India

A landmark Supreme Court case that expanded the interpretation of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, establishing it as a 'watchdog of democracy'.

Article 21

A provision in the Indian Constitution that guarantees the right to life and personal liberty.

Golden Triangle

A principle established in the Maneka Gandhi case, stating that Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Constitution are interrelated and should be interpreted together.

Section 10(3)(c) of the Passport Act 1967

A provision that allows the impounding of a passport under certain circumstances, which was challenged in the Maneka Gandhi case.

Personal Liberty

The right of an individual to be free from physical restraint and to make personal choices, protected under Article 21.

Writ Petition

A formal written order to a court asking for a legal remedy, as filed by Maneka Gandhi under Article 32 of the Constitution.

Audi Alteram Partem

A legal principle meaning 'let the other side be heard,' fundamental to natural justice.

Fundamental Rights

Basic human rights enshrined in Part III of the Indian Constitution, including rights under Articles 14, 19, and 21.

Natural Justice

The legal doctrine ensuring fairness in proceedings, implied in the interpretation of fundamental rights.

Right to Travel Abroad

Interpreted as a part of personal liberty under Article 21, established through the Supreme Court's ruling.

A.K. Gopalan case

A previous case cited in arguments regarding the interpretation of 'law' under Article 21, influencing the judgment in Maneka Gandhi's case.

Judgment Date

January 25, 1978, the date when the Supreme Court delivered its landmark ruling in the Maneka Gandhi vs Union of India case.