Human Rights and NGOs

The basic principle is that all human being are born free and equal in dignity and rights, for which the United Nations has adopted holistic approach in determining what human rights are. Human rights are all about the life, liberty, freedom, security and dignity of men, women, youth and children. The Constitution of India provides ample scope for protection human rights of Indian citizens through Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of the State policy. Our Judiciary also safeguards human rights by issuing certain writs in this regard. Yet the human rights are being violated frequently by the administration itself and state governments are incapable to maintain the law and order as per the spirit of the Constitution as well as for the democratic framework of the country. It shows the indifferent attitude of the state government to implement the law and order. Actually, it is the duty of state government to safeguard the human rights of its citizens with the help of NHRC and SHRC. But a dent making effect has not been visible. It reflects the failure of our system. In this arena, NGOs can be better actor for protecting the human rights of the people. As the NGOs are too much close to the people so they may help in making people aware about human rights. It may be noted that silence nourishes oppression. Therefore, it is necessary for NGOs to be given new strength to follow up action in promotion of equality and indiscrimination. NGOs may also be involved in framing the policy, implementing and monitoring regarding the human rights. In addition, adequate funds are also required for the awareness campaign. Apart from this, higher educational institutions may also be involved to train the NGOs to enable them disseminate the knowledge of human rights to the people. NGOs can collect information about the violation of human rights especially at the grassroots level. State government should provide conducive environment to enable NGOs to function freely and openly within their societies to eliminate of racism and racial discrimination.