Protecting Vulnerable Groups: Safeguarding Human Rights In India
- IJLLR Journal
- Aug 21
- 2 min read
Deepika K Sasi, LLM (Criminal Law), Sree Narayana Law College, Poothotta, Affiliated to M G University Kottayam, Kerala.
Anoop Antony, LLM (Criminal Law), Sree Narayana Law College, Poothotta Affiliated to M G University Kottayam, Kerala.
ABSTRACT
This world is aware of the complex problem of the disadvantaged groups in India. This paper aims at examining the vulnerabilities faced by the disadvantaged groups in depth. Special protection is urgently needed in India to protect the human rights of the vulnerable groups. This paper is intending to deal with the various states of vulnerability and the underlying factors that contribute to greater distress in these groups. It also identifies the important role of various stakeholders, including the state, social organisations, private companies and civil society in ensuring the protection and promotion of the human rights of vulnerable people. Vulnerability among the groups arise due to many reasons which includes a mix of factors such as socio-economic disparities, caste-based discrimination, gender inequality, religious persecution, disability, and geographic marginalisation. Torture and insecurity faced by these groups add risk to their lives and often leads to human rights violations. The special need to protect the human rights of vulnerable groups in India is to be over emphasized in today’s world because, these groups face barriers to accessing justice, healthcare, education, employment, and basic needs, leaving them vulnerable and causing social conflict. Therefore, response plans and policies that address the specific needs and challenges faced by vulnerable groups are necessary to ensure human rights.
This paper tries to analyse the role, responsibilities, and significance of the State in protecting the human rights of the vulnerable groups in India. The Government has the responsibility to establish and implement laws and policies that protect the rights of vulnerable groups, while ensuring their effective participation in the decision-making process. Non-governmental organisation along with civil societies role also need to be analysed to bring in an equilibrium. Non-governmental organisations play an important role in advancing the rights of vulnerable groups, providing support, services, and promoting access to justice. Private companies have a responsibility to promote human right standards in their operations and supply chains, thereby reducing the risk of human right violations. Consequently, protecting the human rights of vulnerable people in India requires the cooperation of all stakeholders. It must have a policy that prioritise the dignity, freedom, and well-being of all people, regardless of their social status, economy, and family traditions. Working together, we can create an inclusive and just society where everyone's rights are respected and protected.
Keywords: Vulnerable groups, Human rights, Civil society, Discrimination, Marginalisation.
