At the Legal Rights Defenders Council (LRDC), we are guided by a strong legal framework that upholds the dignity, freedom, and equality of every individual. The protection and promotion of human rights in India are supported by a range of constitutional provisions, national legislations, and international conventions. Below is an overview of key human rights acts that form the backbone of our work and advocacy.
Human Rights Acts
Know your rights, uphold your dignity, and stand against injustice.
1. The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 (Amended 2019)
This foundational law empowers the formation of Human Rights Commissions at the national and state levels to investigate violations and promote human rights awareness.
2. Constitution of India – Fundamental Rights
The Constitution is the supreme source of all rights in India. Key Articles include:
• Article 14 – Equality before law
• Article 15 – Prohibition of discrimination
• Article 19 – Freedom of speech & expression
• Article 21 – Right to life and personal liberty
• Article 32 – Right to constitutional remedies
3. The SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989
A powerful law to prevent atrocities and ensure justice for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, with provision for special courts and stringent punishment.
4. The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005
Ensures a violence-free environment for women and provides legal protection from abuse within households.
5. Right to Information Act (RTI), 2005
Empowers citizens to demand transparency and accountability in public institutions by accessing information held by government bodies.
6. The Juvenile Justice Act, 2015
Safeguards the rights of children in need of care and protection or those in conflict with law, with a focus on rehabilitation and reintegration.
7. Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012
A child-centric law ensuring legal mechanisms to deal with sexual abuse and exploitation of minors.
8. Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016
Guarantees equality and protection for persons with disabilities and mandates inclusive policies in education, employment, and public services.
9. Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019
Promotes inclusion, recognition, and non-discriminatory treatment of transgender persons in all aspects of social life.
10. International Human Rights Conventions
India is a signatory to global human rights treaties including:
• Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)
• International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)
• International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR)
• Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)
• Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC)
• UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)