DR. P. NALLA THAMBY THERA vs UNION OF INDIA AND OTHERS

The Supreme Court, while addressing a public interest litigation concerning railway accidents, held that it cannot issue directions to the Union of India due to the executive's domain over resource allocation and policy priorities. The Court emphasized the government's obligation to ensure the fundamental rights under Articles 19 and 21 of the Constitution, particularly the right to life, which encompasses the quality of public services like railways. The petitioner was awarded costs of Rs. 5,000 recoverable from the Railway Ministry, underscoring the need for improved railway services as a public utility rather than a mere commercial venture.