Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in India is a legal mechanism that allows individuals or organizations to file a lawsuit in the public interest. PIL is aimed at protecting the rights and interests of the public, addressing issues of public concern, and seeking judicial intervention to enforce the rule of law. Unlike traditional litigation, where the aggrieved party directly approaches the court, PIL allows any citizen or a non-governmental organization (NGO) to file a petition on behalf of the public. The following entities can file a PIL in India: Individual Citizens: Any citizen, whether directly affected or not, can file a PIL if they believe that a particular issue is of public interest and requires the attention of the court. Public Spirited Individuals: Individuals who are not directly affected by the issue but are genuinely concerned about public welfare can file a PIL. Such individuals are often referred to as "public-spirited citizens." Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): NGOs working in the field of human rights, environmental protection, consumer rights, and other public interest areas are often involved in filing PILs. These organizations can act as representatives of the public in seeking legal remedies. Journalists and Social Activists: Journalists and social activists, who are committed to promoting the public interest, can also file PILs to bring attention to matters affecting the public at large. Legal Practitioners: Lawyers can file PILs on behalf of individuals or groups, acting as representatives of the public. The legal community plays a crucial role in initiating and pursuing PILs. It's important to note that the key criterion for filing a PIL is the concern for public interest. The petitioner should not have a personal interest in the matter but should be motivated by the desire to address issues affecting the public or to ensure the enforcement of legal and constitutional rights. PILs in India can be filed in the Supreme Court, High Courts, or even lower courts, depending on the nature and scope of the issue. The courts, in turn, have the discretion to admit or reject PIL petitions based on the merit of the case and the petitioner's standing. PIL has been instrumental in addressing various social and environmental issues in India, and it continues to be an important tool for seeking justice in matters of public concern.