K.GURUPRASAD RAO vs STATE OF KARNATAKA .

The Supreme Court addressed the issue of preservation of historical monuments, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage and the need for legislative protection. The Court highlighted the inadequacies in existing laws and the necessity for a comprehensive framework to safeguard these monuments, referencing various international practices and statutes. The judgment mandates the State to take proactive measures for the preservation of such sites, thereby reinforcing the legal obligation under Article 21 of the Constitution, which encompasses the right to a healthy environment and cultural heritage.