The Supreme Court of India ruled that the right to walk on a demarcated footpath is a Fundamental Right.
A Bench comprising P. S. Narasimha and A. S. Chandurkar held that pedestrians’ right to use footpaths takes priority over the movement of motorised vehicles.
The Court held that the right to walk forms part of the freedom of movement under Article 19(1)(d) and is also protected under Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty) of the Constitution.
The judgment was delivered in a motor accident compensation case involving the death of a five-year-old child while walking to school with his father.
The Court observed that the fundamental right to walk carries a corresponding duty on the authorities to provide demarcated, safe, and well-maintained footpaths.
It also recommended the creation of a regulatory body to ensure the effective implementation and protection of pedestrians’ rights.
The judgment reinforces the importance of pedestrian safety, inclusive urban planning, and sustainable mobility in India.
Source: AIR
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