Comprehensive guide to fundamental rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution, protections for vulnerable groups, and mechanisms to seek justice.
Ensures equality before the law, prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth, and abolishes untouchability and titles.
Protects freedom of speech and expression, assembly, association, movement, residence, and the right to practice any profession or occupation.
Prohibits human trafficking, forced labor (beggar), and employment of children under 14 years in hazardous conditions.
Guarantees freedom of conscience, profession, practice, and propagation of religion, and prohibits religious instruction in state-funded educational institutions.
Protects the rights of minorities to conserve their distinct language, script, and culture, and to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.
Empowers citizens to approach the Supreme Court directly if their fundamental rights are violated, through writs of habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, certiorari, and quo warranto.
Indian law provides comprehensive protections for women through various legislations such as the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (2005), Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act (2013), and Dowry Prohibition Act (1961).
These laws address issues of domestic violence, workplace harassment, dowry-related crimes, and ensure equal rights in matters of marriage, divorce, inheritance, and employment. The Constitution also permits special provisions for women under Article 15(3).
The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 protects marginalized communities from acts of violence, humiliation, and exploitation based on their social status.
The Constitution also provides for reservation in educational institutions, government jobs, and political representation to ensure social justice and equal opportunities for advancement.
Additionally, the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 makes the practice of untouchability a punishable offense, reinforcing Article 17 of the Constitution which abolishes untouchability.
Articles 29 and 30 of the Constitution specifically protect the rights of religious and linguistic minorities to preserve their culture and establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.
The National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992 established a statutory body to safeguard the rights of minority communities and ensure their welfare.
Various Supreme Court judgments have reinforced the secular fabric of India and the right to religious freedom, while maintaining the principle of reasonable restrictions.
The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 ensures equal opportunities, protection of rights, and full participation for persons with disabilities in all aspects of society.
The law mandates accessibility in public buildings, transportation, and information systems, and prohibits discrimination in employment, education, and other areas.
It also provides for reservation in higher education institutions and government jobs, social security, healthcare, rehabilitation, and recreation facilities for persons with disabilities.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) was established in 1993 under the Protection of Human Rights Act. It serves as an independent statutory body responsible for the protection and promotion of human rights in India.
The Commission is composed of a Chairperson (former Chief Justice of India), members from the judiciary, and experts in human rights. It functions as a watchdog for human rights violations and recommends appropriate remedial measures to the government.
Any person can file a complaint with the NHRC if they believe their human rights or those of others have been violated. Complaints can be filed:
There is no fee for filing a complaint, and complaints can be made in any language recognized in the Indian Constitution.
The Commission aims to dispose of cases expeditiously, though complex matters may take longer depending on the cooperation of concerned authorities.
Established the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and State Human Rights Commissions (SHRCs) to protect and promote human rights in India, providing a framework for investigation and redressal of human rights violations.
Empowers citizens to seek information from public authorities, promoting transparency and accountability in governance, which is essential for the protection of human rights.
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act provides for stringent punishment for sexual crimes against children and establishes special courts for speedy trials of such offenses.
Protects the rights of persons with mental illness, ensuring they receive care and treatment in a dignified manner, and prohibiting procedures like electroconvulsive therapy without anesthesia.
Human rights are not a privilege but a fundamental entitlement. Learn, advocate, and ensure justice for all.