Last Updated:February 08, 2026, 18:07 IST The HC noted that the BMC is duty-bound to provide and maintain enough toilets “so that the hygiene and health of the slum dwellers is looked after.” A general view of the Dharavi slums in Mumbai. (AFP file photo) The Bombay High Court has directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to ensure sufficient toilet facilities in slum areas across Mumbai, including those on encroached municipal or government land. Observing that access to adequate sanitation is a basic human right under Article 21 (Right to Life) of the Constitution, the court said, “In our opinion, making adequate provisions for toilets/sanitation facilities concerns the basic human rights under Article 21 of the Constitution.” The HC noted that the BMC, particularly when the land belongs to it, is duty-bound to provide and maintain enough toilets “so that the hygiene and health of the slum dwellers is looked after.” This obligation applies to all slums in Mumbai, the court added. The order was passed on February 3 during the hearing of a writ …