Key Takeaways Suo Moto refers to the power of a court or authority to take action on its own initiative. It is a key Legal Maxim in the Indian Justice System, used for issues like environmental protection and social justice. Suo Moto powers have led to big policy changes in the Indian Justice System. Courts can use Suo Moto to act quickly on public interest issues. The Indian judiciary has been using Suo Moto to tackle issues like administrative reforms and human rights. Understanding Suo ... Literal meaning of suo moto is on its own motion. Suo motu/ moto is a Latin legal term, approximately equivalent to the term sua sponte. Suo Moto refers to a Latin term commonly used in the legal field, which translates to "on its own motion" in English. It is used to describe a situation where a court or a judge takes the initiative to act without any party requesting or prompting them to do so. In other words, it refers to a court's inherent power to act on its own accord, without being prompted by any external party. Learn about the legal framework, evolution, and impact of Suo Motu cognizance in India, a judicial power to take up matters on its own initiative. Explore cases and challenges of Suo Motu actions in environmental, human rights, and social justice issues.