C. Masilamani Mudaliar vs. Idol of Sri Swaminathaswami Thirukoil, (1996) 8 SCC 525 (India)

A decedent had executed a will leaving his properties to his widow and his cousin's widow. The decision thus dealt with the question of whether the widow of a decedent had become the absolute owner of the latter's property by operation of the Hindu Succession Act. In ruling in favor of the widows, the Supreme Court discussed the right to life, stating that "Equality, dignity of person and right to development are inherent rights in every human being. Life in its expanded horizon includes all that give meaning to a person's life including culture, heritage and tradition with dignity of person. The fulfillment of that heritage in full measure would encompass the right to life. For its meaningfulness and purpose every woman is entitled to elimination of obstacles and discrimination based on gender for human development, women are entitled to enjoy economic, social, cultural and political rights without discrimination and on footing of equality. Equally in order to effectuate fundamental duty to develop scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of enquiry and to strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activities [...] facilities and opportunities not only are to be provided for, but also all forms of gender based discrimination should be eliminated. It is a mandate to the State to do these acts. Property is one of the important endowments or natural assets to accord opportunity, source to develop personality, to be independent, right to equal status and dignity of person. Therefore, the State should create conditions and facilities conducive for women to realize the right to economic development including social and cultural rights."