All states and union territories (UTs) have been directed by the Supreme Court of India to ensure basic infrastructure such as drinking water and toilet facilities within six months.

On Wednesday, a bench led by Justice KS Radhakrishnan, said that Right to free & compulsory education could not be enjoyed unless children are provided with basic infrastructure.

The bench said in its ruling, "Right to free and compulsory education of children in the age group of six to 14 is part of the fundamental rights guaranteed under Article 21-A. This right cannot be enjoyed unless basic infrastructure is provided by the state."

The apex court ordered the states and the union territories to provide fundamental toilet facilities to girl children in particular.

The judges noted that various surveys have revealed that parents are unwilling to send their children, mainly girls, to schools that lack toilet facilities.

The bench issued the order on a PIL that was filed by Environmental & Consumer Protection Foundation in 2004. The PIL had initially sought a court order for the Delhi government to ensure secured and hygienic conditions in schools.

But, the court expanded its realm after Ravindra Bana, the petitioner's lawyer, drew its attention to the wretched condition of basic infrastructure in schools across the nation.