M/S Shabnam Hashmi vs Union Of India & Ors

The Supreme Court recognized the right to adopt and to be adopted as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution, emphasizing the need for optional guidelines for adoption irrespective of religion, caste, or creed. The Court noted the evolution of adoption law through the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000, and its amendments, which provide a framework for adoption and child welfare. The judgment builds on the principles established in Lakshmi Kant Pandey Vs. Union of India, reinforcing the importance of child-centric policies in adoption practices.