India Supreme Court Declares Right to Walk Fundamental, Prompting Pedestrian Infrastructure Push

On 19 June 2026 the Supreme Court of India ruled that walking on safe, demarcated footpaths is a fundamental right under Articles 19 and 21 of the Constitution. The judgment arose from a compensation case after a five‑year‑old boy was killed by a tanker on a road lacking any footpath or crossing. The Court criticised the focus of the Motor Vehicles Act on vehicles and called for a statutory framework to protect pedestrian rights, urging the Union Government to act.

The decision spotlighted chronic deficiencies in pedestrian infrastructure, especially along National Highway 66 in Karnataka’s Uttara Kannada district. Residents have long complained about the absence of service roads, footpaths and underpasses, with only limited stretches built in towns such as Bhatkal, Karwar and Kumta. The ruling has intensified local demands for safe crossings and dedicated pathways.

Following the verdict, Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta wrote to Karnataka’s Chief Minister, requesting a comprehensive “walkability audit” before the Mangaluru Master Plan is approved, urging the inclusion of continuous footpaths, disabled‑friendly designs and strict enforcement against encroachments. The Supreme Court’s pronouncement is expected to reshape urban planning, municipal accountability and public‑health outcomes across India.