It is an integral facet of the Right to Life under Article 21.
Explanation
Article 21 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the protection of life and personal liberty. Over time, the Supreme Court has interpreted the term "life" broadly to include not just mere animal existence but a life with dignity, encompassing various rights essential for human existence.
Analysis of Options:
- It is a statutory right derived from the Industrial Disputes Act. is Incorrect: The Right to Livelihood is a constitutional right derived from the interpretation of Article 21, not merely a statutory right stemming from the Industrial Disputes Act.
- It is an integral facet of the Right to Life under Article 21. is Correct: In the landmark judgment of Olga Tellis v. Bombay Municipal Corporation (1985), a five-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court held that the Right to Life includes the Right to Livelihood. The Court reasoned that if the right to livelihood were not treated as a part of the constitutional right to life, the easiest way of depriving a person of their right to life would be to deprive them of their means of livelihood to the point of abrogation.
- It can be taken away by the government without any procedure. is Incorrect: The Court held that while the Right to Livelihood is a part of Article 21, it is not absolute. It can be restricted or deprived, but only by a procedure established by law which is just, fair, and reasonable. It cannot be taken away arbitrarily without following due process.
- It is applicable exclusively to government employees. is Incorrect: The judgment specifically addressed the rights of pavement dwellers and slum dwellers. The right is applicable to citizens generally and is not restricted exclusively to government employees.
Key Takeaway:
The Olga Tellis judgment is the authority for the principle that the Right to Livelihood is an integral part of the Right to Life under Article 21, ensuring that no person can be deprived of their means of living except according to a just and fair procedure established by law.