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Hate crime is increasingly a familiar term within the domains of scholarship, policy, and activism as the harms associated with acts of targeted hostility continue to pose complex, global challenges. However, an exclusively Western-centric focus has done little to foster transnational conversations or to shape conceptual or legal frameworks in parts of the world where the challenges posed by hate and prejudice remain underexplored despite their devastating consequences. This article considers how the complexities and specificities of the Indian context disrupt the dominant assumptions of conventional hate crime frameworks. In doing so, it highlights the value of extending conventional Westernized models of thinking to different environments with different sets of challenges. Through its analysis of caste crimes and the factors that reinforce a prevailing institutional and cultural backdrop of political indifference, bureaucratic resistance, and public skepticism, the article illustrates why and how key elements of the Western framework remain ill-suited to the Indian context. The authors call instead for a creative translation of the hate crime concept, which accommodates the nature of violence within specific social contexts, and which emphasizes the institutional features that can mitigate the limitations of state capacity and intent. The process of translation has value in harnessing the benefits of the hate crime concept within countries, which lack a common framework to foster shared understanding and prioritization in relation to tackling contemporary expressions of hate. At the same time, this process enriches prevailing thinking, dismantles stereotypes, and challenges scholars of targeted violence to familiarize themselves with the unfamiliar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The impact of the coronavirus pandemic on persons with disabilities has laid bare the link between health and economic outcomes. This article reviews the legal and policy framework impacting economic outcomes for persons with disabilities in India against the backdrop of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on poverty, economic growth, and productive employment. It offers a policy framework for realizing the human rights of persons with disabilities by advancing their inclusion in India's economic development. People with disabilities have not benefited as much from India's economic development as non-disabled persons. The UN disability rights treaty may oblige India to ensure that people with disabilities are included in its economic development. Historically, India's laws and public policies addressing people with disabilities have not always supported them as intended. For India to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, a set of global goals for UN member states, it will need to protect the human rights of people with disabilities by creating policies to address their intersectional needs. Policy creating economic participation opportunities, recourse from unfairness and discrimination, and effective safety nets may improve outcomes for people with disabilities in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Every day, all over the globe, people make the tough decision of leaving their homes in order to rebuild their lives and settle somewhere else for jobs or education; or they are compelled to leave their native lands and traverse international boundaries to provide a safe and sound environment for their families. Millions of people are also forced to migrate because of armed conflicts, insurgencies, or climate change. This paper explores the contemporary human rights issues faced by refugees and migrants, with special reference to Afghan refugees in India [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study is to investigate the extent to which organizational justice (OJ) mediates between responsible leadership (RL) and employee turnover intention (TI). Design/methodology/approach: Both online and offline questionnaire was used to collect the data from 387 Indian health-care employees, and the data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) with the help of SmartPLS 4. Findings: The study's findings demonstrated a significant positive association between RL and OJ and a negative association between OJ and employee TI. Furthermore, results also confirmed the mediating role of OJ between RI and TI. Research limitations/implications: The generalizability of the study's data collection is limited because it is based on the responses of Indian health-care sector employees to an online and offline survey. The authors propose that the health-care sector uses RL as an approach that takes a broad view of the parties with a stake and focuses on creating fairness in acts and justice at the workplace to address the major issue of employee turnover. Originality/value: This study expanded on previous research by demonstrating that the influence of responsible leadership on employee TI is mediated by OJ in the context of India's health-care sector. It also contributes to the literature regarding RI, OJ and TI. The study also enriched the body of knowledge about using the PLS-SEM approach to predict employee TI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study is conducted to understand an emerging public health problem in the garb of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) that affects about 6–21% of women in reproductive age from a systems perspective. Design/methodology/approach: The research is conducted in two phases. In phase 1, 15 women suffering from PCOS were interviewed to generate a knowledge map using an interpretive phenomenological research approach. The emerging themes were divided into four categories, namely individual, familial, societal, organizational, medical and systemic. In phase 2, five workshops were conducted with six invited actors to generate a causal loop diagram (CLD) of PCOS. The Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) are used in this study. Findings: A CLD from an individual's perspective with implications on organizational, societal and system levels. Research limitations/implications: Awareness of "lifestyle diseases" is increasing, and this research shall help future studies put PCOS in the larger psychosocial context. The geographical location of respondents can be a limitation, as the causal linkages could only be true for the research site. Practical implications: The CLD provides a comprehensive understanding of complex emerging phenomenon of PCOS. Social implications: The paper draws attention to factors such as frequently changing doctors, withdrawal from work, medication fatigue, inclination to adopt due to infertility, etc. Originality/value: This is the first such paper laying out the causal relationships between factors at the individual levels and connecting them to societal, organizational and system levels. This mapping can be useful for policymakers and industry leaders to empathize with PCOS sufferers so that their working conditions can be managed better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Homelessness has shattered democracies worldwide. This study uses a doctrinal approach, employing content analysis, especially relational content analysis, to examine the underlying factors and difficulties associated with homelessness among women. The study notably focuses on the issue of police violence directed at this marginalised population and sheds light on the vulnerable position of homeless women, highlighting the crucial responsibility of governments under Parens Patriae to protect their lives and freedoms. The study argues that homelessness is fundamentally inconsistent with the principles of human dignity. The findings highlight the constitutional violations committed against homeless women in India, contravening the principles enshrined in Articles 14, 19, and 21, as well as the directives specified in Articles 39(1), 42, and 47. The findings indicate that the social welfare efforts implemented by the state are in line with the objectives of SDGs. This highlights the importance of adopting more focused approaches to address the issue of homelessness among women. Moreover, the study examines the legal framework of the United Kingdom, taking into account the influence of India's colonial history, and investigates the current practices of democratic nations and the role of the protagonist played by the Indian Judiciary in addressing homelessness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Sexuality, Gender & Policy Journal is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This paper aims to explore the intricate relationship between religio-political influence and its impact on social work in contemporary India. The escalating trends of majoritarianism, homogeneity, the instrumentalization of religion for political power, growing inequality, and the prevalence of caste-based violence have contributed to an alarming increase in intolerance among various religious, ethnic, and linguistic groups. These challenges, primarily driven by religio-political factions in India, pose significant obstacles to effective social work practice and intervention. The question arises: Can social work disentangle itself from religion and religio-political influence, or should a new narrative be developed within social work practice to address these concepts? This article underscores the pressing need for a fresh perspective that integrates religion, religiopolitics, and their influence on social work. New narrative can facilitate the development of effective strategies and interventions that mitigate the adverse effects of religio-political factions while promoting social justice and inclusivity. In conclusion, this paper emphasizes the necessity of reimagining the relationship between religion, religio-politics, and social work in India. Thus, social work can play a crucial role in fostering positive societal change, addressing inequality, and countering the rising tide of intolerance fueled by religio-political influences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dalits, as ex-untouchable caste groups, are at the bottom of India's hierarchical social structure and are on the margin in the social, educational, cultural, political, and economic spheres of society. Land is one of the vital resources which does not merely determine one's socio-economic condition but also regulates social position in society. The historical marginalization and exclusion of Dalits denied them land ownership, which affects their socio-economic well-being. Therefore, the denial of Dalits from access to land ownership is not merely visible in their measurable socio-economic condition but also in their social position in society. However, over the period, the social and political mobilization of Dalits has emerged as a tool against structural discrimination and social exclusion, which contributed to their social and economic well-being. Therefore, drawing upon the experience of Lok Sangharsh Samiti (LSS) – an informal social group of Dalit community which was formed in 2002 for land rights in the District of West Champaran, Bihar, the article argues that collective struggle, informal collaboration, and social mobilization of Dalits contributed enormously to their land rights; and thus, Dalits are making a claim for social justice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Iuris Stetinensis is the property of Wydawnictwo Naukowe Uniwersytetu Szczecinskiego / University of Szczecin Press and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

With the announcement of "The Employment of Manual Scavengers and Construction of Dry Latrines (Prohibition) Act, 1993," the practice of manual scavenging became illegal in India. The manual scavenging problem as a practice is prolonged because of the lack of technological progress and political and administrative will to implement reformative laws on the ground. The Indological text has a particular interpretation of manual scavenging, constituting the basis of caste ideologies and practices. Using qualitative data, the present study encapsulates the transformation of manual scavenging from an overlooked issue to one that demands attention and understanding. It sets the tone for a comprehensive exploration of the historical, social, and policy dimensions surrounding manual scavenging in India. The paper argues that most of the legislative and executive decisions have landed on the terrain of totemism, purity & pollution and are heavily ritualised in the ideological framework, contributing least to the practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Female Healthcare Workers (FHCWs) played a crucial role during the Coronavirus Diseases-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, diligently donning Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to deliver essential care to patients. While PPE effectively shielded FHCWs from infections, it simultaneously imposed limitations on their ability to perform fundamental human activities, including using restrooms and managing menstruation. During menstruation, the restricted access to sanitary pads, combined with the challenges of working in PPE, heightened vulnerability among FHCWs, resulting in discomfort, distress, and a decline in work efficiency. Aim: To assess the perceptions, experiences, and challenges of FHCWs regarding PPE usage while providing healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, it aimed to explore the challenges experienced in managing Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH) during the COVID-19. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the western region of India at a tertiary care hospital of the medical college of Symbiosis International (Deemed to be University) in Pune, Maharashtra, India from September 2020 to November 2020. A total of 300 FHCWs who were assigned COVID-19 duties and utilised PPE were included. Data was collected through a semistructured proforma, covering topics on PPE usage, challenges encountered, personal experiences, and the management of menstruation. The collected data underwent analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 21.0, with a primary emphasis on descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 194 (64.7%) perceived that PPE imparted protection, and 267 (89.1%) believed that work efficiency was compromised. Challenges reported by FHCWs while working in PPE included sweating, difficulty in making eye contact, triggers of headaches, nausea, and earaches. A total of 161 (53.9%) reported experiencing a menstrual cycle while on duty with COVID-19 patients, out of which 40 (24.8%) experienced irregular periods, 23 (14.2%) experienced premenstrual stress, and 98 (60.8%) suffered from dysmenorrhoea during menstruation. Additionally, 155 (96.4%) were unable to change sanitary pads, 18 (11%) had stained PPE suits, and 146 (99.9%) experienced challenges in the disposal of sanitary napkins. Conclusion: Many FHCWs felt that PPE offered protection but also compromised work efficiency. Sweating, discomfort, and managing menstrual hygiene within PPE were common challenges encountered. Providing training on PPE usage, adjusting shift durations, implementing policies for the supply of sanitary pads, permitting breaks for changing, ensuring proper disposal arrangements, providing necessary medications and additional PPE if required, leaves, or creating alternative duty arrangements would be beneficial for FHCWs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Violence, a notable human rights concern, has a public health impact across the globe. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and determinants of domestic violence among ever-married women aged 18–49 years in India. Methods Secondary data analysis with National Family Health Survey 5, 2019–21 data (NFHS-5) was conducted. The complex sampling design of the survey was accounted-for during analysis. The primary outcome was domestic violence. Prevalence was reported with 95% confidence interval (CI). Prevalence ratio was reported to provide the factors associated with domestic violence using Poisson regression. Results About 63 796 ever-married women aged 18–49 years covered under domestic violence module of NFHS-5 survey were included. Prevalence of domestic violence (12 months preceding the survey) was 31.9% (95% CI: 30.9–32.9%). Physical violence (28.3%) was the most common form followed by emotional (14.1%) and sexual violence (6.1%). Women with low education, being employed, husband being uneducated or with coercive behavior had significantly higher prevalence of domestic violence. Conclusions One-third of the reproductive age-group women were facing some form of domestic violence. Target group interventions like violence awareness campaigns, women supportive services and stringent law enforcement should be implemented to eliminate domestic violence by year 2030. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper critically reviews and reflects on the processes for providing Assistive Technology (AT) services to Persons with Disabilities (PWD) in Bangladesh, India and Nepal. The aim is to investigate the AT service delivery systems in these countries and suggest improvements where weaknesses are identified. We carried out a descriptive qualitative exploratory study in Bangladesh, India and Nepal by conducting key informant interviews with policymakers (5), AT service providers (22) and mobility and hearing related AT service users (21). We used a directed content analysis approach guided by a seven-point AT service delivery process model to thematically analyse the existing processes for AT service delivery, from first contact through to follow-up and maintenance. AT service delivery processes are sub-optimal in all three countries, and improvements are needed. No common AT service delivery process was found, although there are common features. In general, it is easier for PWDs in India and Nepal to access AT than for those in Bangladesh, but all three countries are failing to live up to their commitments to uphold the human rights of PWDs. Although good elements of AT service delivery processes can be identified, the systems in all three countries are fragmented and generally weak. A more holistic approach of looking at the process of AT service delivery, from first contact right through to follow-up and device maintenance, with a single door service delivery system, free of cost at the point of service is recommended in these countries. Although we found significant weaknesses in AT delivery in all three countries, there are some good AT service delivery practices and opportunities for these countries to learn from one another. A systematic and stepwise approach to assessing current AT service delivery processes in the three countries – examining the delivery system as a whole, from initiation to repair and management – can help identify opportunities to improve the process for (prospective) AT users. A more coherent single door system of AT service delivery will increase the quality and efficiency of the fragmented AT service delivery practices in Bangladesh, India and Nepal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human rights of female sex workers are frequently violated due to the criminalisation of sex work, the stigma and discrimination they encounter, and the lack of access to healthcare, education, and social protection. The purpose of this article is to evaluate how much India's laws, policies, and courts uphold sex workers' rights. By examining India's constitutional provisions, it ensures the right to equal treatment under the law and prohibits any form of gender-based discrimination. In recent rulings, the Supreme Court of India declared that "voluntary sex work is not illegal" and that sex work is a "legal profession." Additionally, it states, "Sex workers are entitled to equal legal protection, and if a sex worker is an adult engaged in sex work with consent, police intervention or criminal prosecution should be avoided." Recent decisions and actions by Indian courts on the Constitution of India, fundamental rights, and prostitution laws can be seen as positive from a human rights standpoint. The same rules and court decisions should also be seen positively by the police and the general public from a human rights perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India, in the new millennium, found its place in the ranks of rapidly developing countries. The primary model of development has long been the 'Western' one, where the emphasis is on projects including the construction of factories, dams, mining, weapon-testing grounds and the like. These projects require large areas of land, which India began acquiring under the umbrella of the Land Acquisition Act of 1894. As land is finite, an increase in the number of such development projects led to large-scale forced evictions of vulnerable populations, with the law relying on the principle of 'eminent domain'. This principle gives the right to the central and state governments to take away private property for 'public purposes'. The Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act of 2013 repealed the Act of 1894 and ushered in a new era of hope for instances of development-induced displacement. However, the central government diluted this legislation by exempting certain categories of projects from the consent and social impact assessment (SIA) requirement. In the absence of specific international and national protective mechanisms, the human rights of development-induced displaced persons have suffered for generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to reflect on how the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the social and economic vulnerability of Indian elderly women, thereby making them prone to varied forms of abuse and denying them of the basic rights of secured existence. Design/methodology/approach: This study was conducted by analyzing primary data from government sources that dealt with the aging Indian population and the common predicaments that elderly women experienced during the pandemic. A qualitative interview was conducted in three old-age homes in India where the experiences of 26 elderly female residents were documented for understanding their experiences during the pandemic. The secondary data collected from different newspaper articles and online resources also enabled in perusing the difficulties that they faced both at home and the caregiving space at the critical juncture of COVID-19. Findings: Nearly 73% of the elderly population in the country has faced an incidence in different forms of abuse and exploitation during the subsequent waves of the pandemic. Disrespect and neglect were the most common type of mistreatment and around 23.1% reported physical assault. The elderly women were victimized further on socioeconomic grounds and their rights of living a secured and dignified life were significantly neglected. Research limitations/implications: The basic premise of this paper operates on the ground that the family as an institution has shunned taking care of the responsibilities vis-a-vis the elderly and therefore formal institutions have been introduced to aid in the conventional caretaking responsibilities in the Indian societal structure. This situation became all the more grave during the pandemic and therefore needed much intervention. This paper follows the theoretical lens of gender theory and case study method to analyze the data. Social implications: The HelpAge India report findings entail that elderly women/widows are doubly marginalized in the Indian society, and the COVID-19 pandemic has escalated the caregiver stress on manifold levels, thus exacerbating the problem. As most of the female senior citizens are economically dependent on their children and relatives, financial exploitation became one of the important premise that deprived them of a healthy living both at home and elderly caregiving institution. Despite the prevalence of certain elderly assistance schemes in the country, the older women's needs and well-being got heavily impacted and their voice gets hardly recognized in the wider spectrum of sociopolitical events. To extend the requisite help and assistance to this socially vulnerable section, the government on September, 2021, launched a pan-India, toll-free helpline number "Elder Line" to provide relevant information on elderly legal and medical aid and guidance on procuring pension. Originality/value: According to the secondary findings, a significant percentage of elderly women have been susceptible to physical and emotional abuse and factors such as widowhood, economic dependency, physical infirmity, cognitive impairment along with other stressors have aggravated their exposure to ill-treatment during the pandemic span. Thus, to recognize and mitigate the existing problems affecting the elderly subjects, the government should devise the necessary protocols and adopt essential measures to ensure the welfare of the marginalized section and protect their basic rights of a holistic existence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transgender population generally faces rights violations and discrimination in their day-to-day lives, which was exacerbated during the recent pandemic. This necessitates close scrutiny from an ethics perspective. Following directives from a 2014 Supreme Court judgement, Kerala became the first Indian state to implement a comprehensive policy to enforce the constitutional rights of transgender people. Despite such positive actions, a basic social tendency not to respect gender diversity has led to discrimination and marginalization. This was very evident during the pandemic. In this empirical work, we have documented the lives of the transgender community during the pandemic wherein they share experiences related to livelihood, interaction with the healthcare system, and acceptance in society vis-à-vis the pandemic. Simply providing third-gender status will not help the gender-marginalized community to grow to their fullest potential and have a better lifestyle on par with others in mainstream society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A personal narrative is presented which explores the authors experience in offering reassurance to the mentally ill people from the lower socio-economic strata in our country and their suffering families.

India continues to debate the unrealised constitutional aspiration of a Uniform Civil Code for personal and family law. Drawing on comparative and global experience in constitutional law and religion and the value of mediation, this article evaluates the substance and process of that national discourse in India. The authors examine the Law Commission's rigorous efforts to mediate this long-standing controversy, its solicitation of diverse views on each topical area, and advancement toward a legislative (over judicial) outcome that is well-suited to the Indian context. This article argues that the Law Commission is mediating these weighty competing concerns effectively in the pursuit of free exercise of parallel, community-based, plural religious laws of the diverse religious communities and the simultaneous development and application of uniform, national, basic protections in family and personal law. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The India-Bangladesh boundary is one of the most vulnerable and most problematic borders in the World. The Indian Border Security Force (BSF) tortures, abducts or opens fire on Bangladesh civilians residing around the border at every opportunity. From time to time, BSF officers enter the territory of Bangladesh illegally and break into house in villages in the border region and carry out attacks. These engagments are viewed as a major threat to Bangladesh border security and security and safety of residents in the border area. Although all neighboring countries have some sort of problems with legal or illegal crossings, practices up to the level of massacre have not been recorded. These systematic and predetermined activities of Indian officials are considered violation humane treatment according to the UN 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights as well as other national and international regulations. In this study, security problems that constitute serious violations of human rights on the Bangladesh-India border are discussed. The leading causes of the killing of Bangladeshi citizens living in or crossing the border are by BSF officers are emphasized, and the impact of these border killings on bilateral relations is examined. Considering that the events are also serious violations of human rihgts, the possibility for an international solution is proposed unless the problem is resolved through bilateral negotiations. As the study is concerned with the practices between the two countries that are in violations of clear provisions of international law, the analyses are carried out through case study method with a specific emphasis on content analysis. Thus, despite the use of figures, the inferences are based on qualitative research method. In this regard, that the violations of law are shadowed by political relations in which India has an upper hand in every aspect is the main subject of this study. This article aims at revealing the legal bases of these violations, emphasizing constructive solutions through bilateral negotiations and thereby filling an important gap especially in the Turkish literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Intimate partner violence (IPV) against women is a global phenomenon. IPV is a public health, social policy and human rights concern across the globe. It remains a serious issue in Indian context as well. This paper aims to identify the factors associated with IPV using India's nationally representative National Family Health Survey (NFHS) data. Design/methodology/approach: To identify the factors associated with IPV in India, the authors have used binary logistic regression to estimate two models. The outcome variables are women facing physical violence in the first model and sexual violence in the second. The explanatory variables are broadly socio-economic indicators related to the women and a few other indicators related to the characteristics of the household. Findings: The authors found that urban and working women face higher odds of violence. Alcohol consumption by the husband increases the risks of IPV, whereas risk decreases with women's autonomy. Even though the prevalence of physical and sexual violence has decreased by 6.8% and 3.9% from 2005–2006 to 2019–2021, the data shows that women across social, economic and regions still face violence from their partners. However, the physical violence increased from 2015–2016 to 2019–2021. Originality/value: To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is a distinct attempt to use pooled data of the nationally representative sets NFHS-3 (2005–2006), NFHS-4 (2015–2016) and NFHS-5 (2019–2021) to study the factors associated with IPV in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a context of rapid technological innovation and expensive new products, the paper calls for the generation of real-world data to inform decision-making and an international discussion on the affordability of new medicines, particularly for low- and middle-income countries. Without these, the challenges of health judicialization will continue to grow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Policy analysis is an important tool to ensure that policies are rights-based and socially inclusive. The aim of this study was to assess the level of commitment to core concepts of human rights and the inclusion of vulnerable groups in five national mental health policies across low-, middle- and high-income countries. Method: Policy documents were evaluated using EquiFrame, a systematic policy content analysis framework. Policies were examined with regard to their coverage of 21 core concepts of human rights (Core Concept Coverage), their quality of commitment to these core concepts (Core Concept Quality), and their inclusion of 12 vulnerable groups (Vulnerable Group Coverage). An Overall Summary Ranking was also assigned to each policy with regard to it being of 'high', 'moderate', or 'low' quality. Results: Each of the policies scored 'high' on Vulnerable Group Coverage and Core Concept Coverage, although there were notable omissions. All policies, with the exception of Ireland, scored below EquiFrame's criteria for Core Concept Quality. The Irish policy produced a 'high' Overall Summary Ranking; while the Liberian, Kenyan, South African, and Indian policies each received a 'moderate' Overall Summary Ranking. Conclusion: All policies received their lowest scores for Core Concept Quality, signifying a need for policymakers to ensure specific policy actions and monitoring mechanisms to address human rights in mental health policies. EquiFrame offers a constructive tool for mental health policy analysis in relation to core concepts of human rights and inclusion of vulnerable groups, which are considered key in successfully realising the Sustainable Development Goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India went through an unprecedented lockdown from 25 March 2020 to combat the spread of Covid-19. Regrettably, a congregation of Tablighi Jamaat, a renowned Muslim missionary group, took place during the lockdown period in Nizamuddin Markaz of Delhi, one of the most densely populated places in the country's capital. The congregation was heavily criticised as it furthered the Covid-19 outbreak, with more than 4000 confirmed cases among the attendees. The immediate aftermath was a sharp nationwide uprising of Islamophobia and the promotion of the 'us versus them' ideology. Indeed, India's social and secular fabric was torn apart and crumbled catastrophically, inviting a series of discriminatory and inhumane perceptions and treatment towards Muslims. The recent hijab (head scarf) ban in educational institutes in the State of Karnataka is a part of the same series of Islamophobic events. The unfortunate Covid-19 incident of Tablighi Jamaat should be understood from social, political, legal, and human rights aspects. With a critical investigation of empirical data collected from various participants and stakeholders through an online questionnaire, this article examines the causes and consequences of violations of the rights of Muslims as a minority community in India in the aftermath of the Tablighi Jamaat incident. In particular, this article probes racial profiling and systematic discrimination violations and how they pierce the country's secular fabric. Based on the foregoing analysis, a few suggestions are made for tackling the growing animosity towards Muslims in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the critical moment when the idea of equality entered international law. The article argues that a political claim to equality of all human beings surfaced at the international level already in the 1920s and 1930s, long before human rights were discussed at the United Nations. The International Labour Organisation (ILO), established in 1919, provided the venue for delegates from non-European countries or territories—most of them confronting some form of colonialism—to raise their voices against the exploitation of labour in India, China and other places under the domination of colonial powers. The delegates' idea of equality was present in arguments attacking racial hierarchies and in arguments criticizing unequal treatment in 'native labour' relations. The universalistic idea of the equal worth of all human beings and the idea of equal treatment was advanced to de-legitimize narrow concepts of equality based on race. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993(the 'PHRA') came into force on 28th September 1993 and is the primary legislation for protecting Human Rights in India. The PHRA aims to provide better human rights protection to the people by setting up Human Rights Court(s) (HRC) for providing speedy trial of "offences arising out of violation of human rights". The PHRA, however, does not define or lay down the "offences" that can be construed as arising out of violation of human rights. The paper aims to understand the phrase "offences arising out of violation of human rights" through the interpretation adopted by the Higher Courts of India. Seeking guidance there from the authors enlist some of the "offences" within the Indian Penal Code, 1860 which the HRC(s) can try as "offences arising out of violation of human rights". Furthermore, to determine whether the failure to list the offences impedes the practical operation of the HRC(s), the paper conducts an in-depth study of the cases filed before the HRC(s) in the State of Gujarat. Besides that, the authors conduct a survey among the advocates who practice in these courts, to determine their understanding of the phrase "offences arising from violations of human rights," since they're a layperson's first point of contact within the judicial system. The authors conclude that the failure to codify the nature of offences triable before the HRC(s) causes confusion among advocates, undermining the institution's potential. The PHRA should therefore be amended to include the offences that can be tried before the HRC(s). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The special status of Indian Occupied Kashmir has been abolished after the Bhartiya Janta Party's (BJP) government revoked Article 370 of the Constitution in 2019. The bilateral relations between India and Pakistan are marred by the Kashmir issue. Since independence, Kashmiris have been denied basic human rights including the right to choose and the right to life. India has pursued hard-lined policies to suppress Kashmiris' right to self-determination. The central argument of this paper is that Indian government has been trying to legitimize its occupation of Kashmir. In pursuit of this, it has been suppressing the voices of Kashmiris and committing human rights violations. The research investigates how Indian actions following the abrogation of Article 370 have led to grave human rights abuses in Kashmir. The study has adopted qualitative approach and used various reports and published literature on the matter. The issue has been analyzed from the lens of realism, constructivism, and balance of power theory. India has been using excessive military might and tactics like changing the demographics of the region to stabilize and legitimize its rule. It is the time when the international community should take notice of Indian belligerence and abuse of the internationally accepted Convention of 1990, the Covenant of 1966, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948. The United Nations must intervene to stop the illtreatment of the Kashmiri people, who have been the victims of Indian defiance for decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) is one of the most devastating physical disabilities that unexpectedly affects physical, mental, familial, social, and economic aspects of people's lives. This article analyses the trajectories of Indian women with SCI as they attempt to access health care after the injury. Based on a qualitative research paradigm, this study adopts a phenomenological approach and conducts in-depth interviews with 21 Indian women with traumatic SCI. (A) A lack of awareness and basic knowledge about SCI in India makes emergency response and eventual reintegration of persons with SCI in the society challenging. (B) The Indian health systems fail to meet the comprehensive health care needs of women with SCI primarily due to inadequate healthcare infrastructure and lack of empathy, accountability and knowledge about SCI among general healthcare providers. (C) The lack of patient and caregiver education results in diminished health and wellbeing of injured and their families. The issue of SCI is not only a health issue but an issue of human rights. The persons with SCI, particularly women, must get an equitable access to health care, education, employment, transportation and other basic amenities and opportunities. A comprehensive response to SCI entails concerted measures such as ramping up the disability-inclusive healthcare infrastructure and enhancing the capacities of all health care providers. Besides providing rehabilitation services through the primary, secondary and tertiary levels of the health systems, India should also prioritise and offer quality community-based rehabilitation, especially in remote and rural areas. Given the unique vulnerabilities faced by women with disabilities in India, a compressive package of gender sensitive rehabilitation services needs to be integrated within the overall rehabilitation services across the country. The persons with SCI (and their families) need to be empowered through comprehensive information, counselling and skills that could help them lead independent, productive, and dignified lives. There is an urgent need to foster SCI research and make disaggregated data on SCI publicly available so that policy response to SCI is based on scientific evidence and local realities [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The article aimed at providing glimpses of the status of higher education for persons with disabilities in India, starting with the distant past and moving on to present day developments. It describes the impact of legislations and policies on the educational support systems through the years. Method: Desk review of relevant documents was undertaken and data was presented in the conventional narrative review style. Research questions address the status of higher education of persons with disabilities in India, the impact of Acts and policies and the support systems in place in the past and in the current educational systems. The main focus is on factors that lead to successful completion of higher education and challenges in accessing higher education by persons with disabilities in the country. Results: In ancient India, during the Vedic period, there were no special arrangements for higher education of persons with disabilities. During the Mughal and British periods as well the education of persons with disabilities was not addressed. After Independence, although the provisions mandated by the Acts have increased the support systems in universities and colleges, higher education requires more streamlining to meet the needs of persons with disabilities. Universities that have made innovative arrangements for the education of persons with disabilities have been mentioned. Conclusion: India has made giant strides in facilitating higher education for all, yet there are gaps in the educational system. The article puts forward some recommendations for achieving equitable higher education for persons with disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2014, the Indian state revised a key program providing aids and appliances to disabled people to also include cochlear implants for children living below the poverty line. The program is remarkable in its targeting of the poorest of the poor to provide them with expensive technology made by multinational corporations and its development of new surgery and rehabilitation infrastructures throughout India. Based on interviews and participant observation with key stakeholders, this paper argues that in focusing only on "a right to hearing" and on cochlear implants as a solution for deafness, health care practitioners ignore the complex work required to maintain cochlear implant infrastructures, as well as the advocacy work done by disability activists in India and internationally to transform existing political, economic, educational, and social structures. Since cochlear implants are the "gold standard" in intervening on hearing loss and increasing numbers of countries in the Global South have started state-funded cochlear implant programs, an exploration of India's program provides an opportunity to analyze both the importance of infrastructure and the need to combat ableism within structural competency frameworks. Disability justice is part of structural competency. Ultimately what is at stake is expanding health practitioners' ideas of what it means to maximize potential, particularly in the face of new technological interventions around disability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite considerable evidence of the patriarchal nature of the police and underreporting of gender‐based violence in India, there is a dearth of literature on how gender advocacy campaigns in India tackle these issues. This study addresses this gap by exploring how the police is represented in gender advocacy in India. The material comprises of eight campaign videos from two ideologically opposing organizations: Amnesty International, an international human rights organization and Ministry for Women and Child Development, a government body. Social representations theory and narrative analysis are applied in the analysis to answer how the role of the police is narratively constructed. Results suggest two contrasting representations held by each organization in line with their organizational identities. While Amnesty constructed the police as villains obstructing women's access to justice, the Ministry represented the police as heroes defending women's safety. The analysis contributes a novel way of locating anchors and objectifications by a focus on narrative actions and goals. Additionally, the discussion of the findings broadens conceptions of hegemonic and polemic representations, arguing for a more power‐centric approach that conceives of hegemony in terms of access to media channels and material resources. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ensuring patient rights is an extension of applying human rights principles to health care. A critical examination of how the notion of patient rights is perceived and enacted by various actors through critical discourse analysis (CDA) can help understand the impediments to its realization in practice. Methods: We studied the discourses and discursive practices on patient rights in subnational policies and in ten health facilities in southern Karnataka, India. We conducted interviews (78), focus group discussions (3) with care-seeking individuals, care-providers, health care administrators and public health officials. We also conducted participant observation in selected health facilities and examined subnational policy documents of Karnataka pertaining to patient rights. We analyzed the qualitative data for major and minor themes. Results: Patient rights discourses were not based upon human rights notions. In the context of neoliberalism, they were predominantly embedded within the logic of quality of care, economic, and consumerist perspectives. Relatively powerful actors such as care-providers and health facility administrators used a panoply of discursive strategies such as emphasizing alternate discourses and controlling discursive resources to suppress the promotion of patient rights among care-seeking individuals in health facilities. As a result, the capacity of care-seeking individuals to know and claim patient rights was restricted. With neoliberal health policies promoting austerity measures on public health care system and weak implementation of health care regulations, patient rights discourses remained subdued in health facilities in Karnataka, India. Conclusions: The empirical findings on the local expression of patient rights in the discourses allowed for theoretical insights on the translation of conceptual understandings of patient rights to practice in the everyday lives of health system actors and care-seeking individuals. The CDA approach was helpful to identify the problematic aspects of discourses and discursive practices on patient rights where health facility administrators and care-providers wielded power to oppress care-seeking individuals. From the practical point of view, the study demonstrated the limitations of care-seeking individuals in the discursive realms to assert their agency as practitioners of (patient) rights in health facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India continued its recovery from COVID-19 in 2022. The Omicron strain was less lethal than previous waves and consequently had a smaller economic footprint. The economy began rebounding, with trade and foreign direct and portfolio investments recovering to pre-pandemic levels. India remained one of the fastest-growing economies in the world in 2022. However, it suffered very significant setbacks to its democracy, with increased attacks on civil and political liberties and human rights, and on its institutions, by BJP-led governments at the center and in the states. India effectively managed foreign policy challenges stemming from the Ukraine--Russia conflict, incursions into Indian territory by China, and the Islamophobic rhetoric of its own party leaders. Overall, 2022 was marked by a slew of BJP victories in six out of seven states and by the negative consequences of the BJP's political strength for Indian democracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the socio-economic inequalities that exist in the use of unhygienic menstrual practices in India and its states, as well as to identify the contribution of various socio-economic factors that leads to these inequalities. Design/methodology/approach: Data from the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–21) for 240,285 menstruating women aged 15–24 years is used to examine the above objectives. The concentration index for unhygienic menstrual practices is calculated to measure the socio-economic inequalities, which are then decomposed into their determining factors. Findings: The state of Punjab experiencing the highest level of economic inequality, followed by Telangana and Haryana. The results from decomposition analysis suggest that rural residence (13%), illiteracy (7%), poor economic status (53%), not reading newspaper (12%) and not watching TV (14%) contribute 99% to the total socio-economic inequality in using unhygienic menstrual practices in India. The contribution of economic status to total inequalities is more in all the states except for Kerala and Mizoram, where caste and residence play an important role. Originality/value: This paper signifies the role of economic inequality in the use of unhygienic menstrual practices in India as well as the contribution of various socio-economic factors contributing towards these inequalities. The results from decomposition analysis suggest the need for unique health intervention strategies for different states following the evidence of major contributions to total inequalities in the use of unhygienic menstrual practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines the struggles faced by trans individuals in India, using the Hindi biographical drama "Taali" as a focal point. Topics discussed include the psychological impact of family rejection and societal stigma, the process of gaining acceptance within the trans community, and the importance of legal recognition and support for trans rights.

The paper Rights of Persons with Disabilities in India: Provisions, Promises and Reality traces the historical evolution of the disability related legal provisions in India briefly, in the context of the United Nations mandated Declaration on the Rights of Disabled Persons (1975) and the Convention on the Rights of the Persons with Disabilities (CRPD, 2007). In such a scenario, the paper attempts to arrive at an understanding of the extent to which the provisions have been implemented. To this extent, the researcher conducted a series of telephonic interviews with several parent-advocates who have been vocal about disability rights in India. An extensive interview was also conducted with a parent-activist, Mr. A.Joshi, who has been at the forefront of the disability rights movement in India with his personal as well as professional engagements at a national level and who was able to provide a critical understanding of the systemic roadblocks in the implementation of the legal provisions. The paper particularly tried to look at the implementation of the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPwD Act), 2016 and the proposed dilution of the National Trust Act (NTA), 1999 that was hailed by many as a landmark Act for its provision of legal guardianship of individuals with special needs (after 18 years of age). A critical reading of the press coverage on these issues as well as the extensive interview with Mr. Joshi threw significant light on them. In conclusion, although several remarkable disability laws have been passed in India, till date, due to systemic inadequacies and loopholes, the fissures between what could have been achieved and what has been achieved, are quite wide. A more concerted effort needs to be taken towards strengthening the dialogue between various stakeholders in the disability sector as well as place pressure on the powers that be, to acknowledge the gaps inherent in the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adolescent girls’ right to achieve menstrual health and hygiene management (MHHM) healthfully is yet to be realized. One reason is the lack of practical guidance on the procurement, use, and disposal of menstrual products. This study defined interpersonal practical guidance (IPG) as faceto-face communication and mediated practical guidance (MPG) as social and behavior change communication (SBCC) intervention-driven communications through print and media materials. We examine the impact of these two delivery mechanisms of practical guidance on adolescent MHHM knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) following an SBCC intervention in India. Objectives: To understand how IPG and SBCC-driven MPG independently influence adolescent girls’ KAP on the procurement, use, and disposal of menstrual products and whether those who receive both IPG and MPG have better KAP related to the procurement, use, and disposal of menstrual cloth or sanitary pads than those who receive only one form of practical guidance or none at all. Methods: Adolescent girls’ questionnaire responses from GARIMA’s casecomparison evaluation were analyzed using Stata/SE 17 (n = 2,384). Girls were matched on sociodemographic and socioeconomic variables. χ2 analysis examined relationships between sociodemographic, practical guidance, and KAP variables. Multivariate logistic regression assessed associations between practical guidance and KAP variables. Results: There are significant associations between adolescent girls’ KAP depending on whether they received IPG, SBCC-driven MPG, or both. IPG and MPG delivered together has greater odds of predicting correct menstrual management KAP than when delivered separately. These effects were most notable for adolescent girls’ knowledge and practices related to using and disposing of menstrual hygiene products. Conclusion: There is urgent need to create positive, sustainable changes to address menstrual health and hygiene management. This study introduces an innovative approach that utilizes interpersonal and mediated communication as mechanisms to deliver practical guidance on menstrual management. Future interventions should implement and evaluate to better understand the role of practical guidance in ensuring all women and girls are prepared to confidently manage their menstrual health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the strategic significance of integrating international rights into domestic legislation as a mechanism to enhance the safeguarding of human rights within the specific framework of India. The process of domestic incorporation entails the assimilation of provisions derived from international human rights treaties into the legal structure of a nation, thereby granting individuals the authority to directly assert and protect their rights within local courts. This research examines the advantages and difficulties associated with implementing this technique specifically in the Indian environment. This analysis explores the possibility for enhancing safeguards for human rights, increasing accountability for violations, and improving access to remedies. The research additionally examines factors such as national sovereignty, legal culture, challenges in execution, public awareness, and allocation of resources. This research provides insights into the practical implications of integrating convention rights into India's legal system by examining the experiences and lessons acquired from other nations. The results of this study enhance our comprehension of how the integration of certain elements might promote a society that is more aware of and respects individual rights. This is particularly relevant in the context of India, which has a complex legal system and a diversified human rights environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the difficulties that impede society, particularly the private sector, from considering individuals with disabilities as problem solvers instead of rights holders. It investigates whether it is feasible to require the commercial sector to set aside a particular proportion of jobs for people with disabilities and whether doing so would mean moving away from the existing Human rights model and back toward the charity model. It also attempts to expand the scope of discussion about the rights of the PwDs to connect to a larger debate about their place in society. It identifies gaps that have prevented the private sector from realizing the same. It further maps the progress in International Jurisdiction to understand what India needs to better realize all human rights by people with disabilities. Additionally, it also attempts to understand the contemporary international perspective of some countries regarding the issue to draw upon what kind of politics and initiatives create and reflect a positive change to the situation regarding employment rates of persons with disabilities. This analysis has then helped to develop a few solutions on how the situation can be better using schemes from other countries in the Indian context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under trial and their plight are two interconnected issues which bog down Indian criminal justice system & prison administration simultaneously. Under trials form major chunk of detainees, prison inmates. Consequentially, scores of other administrative ailments crop up which lead to the core issue of gross violations of human rights. Our dispensation of the justice system consists of the police, courts & prison which form three pillars on which the edifice of justice is founded. The cumulative effect is that there are 430 lakh cases pending in District Courts of India. There are approx. 60 lakh cases pending in High Courts across the country and approx. 69 thousand cases in the Supreme Court thus, there are approx. Human Rights are those cardinal intrinsic and pious rights which are as significant as are the humans themselves. Human Rights as basic rights exist and commence with the moment humans come into existence. The rights are inalienable and exist irrespective of caste, creed, gender, religion etc. Human Rights are liable to be violated by other individuals and institutions. The elaborate and comprehensive declarations and provisions in statutes are of no value in the presence of trivialization of human rights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prison has remained an ignored area for long time. The rights of the prisoners have also remained neglected for a very long time. Though there were various cases dealt by the India’s higher judiciary relating to rights of prisoners yet the same has remained obscured as the mainstream media does not cover the news related to prisoners’ rights until some celebrity is involved. In this paper, it is attempted to analyze the rights of the prisoners as recognized by the international law. The paper also analyses the role played by Indian higher judiciary in humanizing the prisons through various case laws in the context of the rights available to prisoners. This paper makes an analysis of the role of India’s Higher Judiciary in making the prisons a place where a prisoner can be treated and made fit to re-enter the society after release to lead an honest life. There have been many areas of challenges wherein the Courts have contributed to its improvement through its decisions and guidelines [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Research paper explores the human rights landscape for marginalized groups in India, focusing on issues related to caste, gender, religion, ethnicity, and socio-economic disparities. It delves into systemic challenges obstructing these groups' rights, examining legal frameworks, societal attitudes, and historical contexts. Additionally, it addresses the intersectionality within marginalized communities and how it impacts their access to rights. The paper analyzes policies, case studies, and grassroots movements to propose strategies for a more inclusive society. Despite legal progress, marginalized groups, including Dalits, tribal communities, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, religious minorities, refugees, migrants, and human rights defenders, continue to face discrimination and obstacles in accessing rights and opportunities. Effective implementation and social change are vital for achieving equality in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since Indian Administered Kashmir's (IAK) 'summer of unrest' of 2010, greater attention towards the contemporary Kashmir azadi, or freedom, movement has led to more active transnational organising by Kashmiris studying abroad as well as other young people who sympathise with this movement. Indian political elites have predominately framed the azadi movement as a separatist movement. However, this perception had not been shared by many Kashmiris who argue the territory has never legally been a part of India. The perception of being a separatist movement from outside of Kashmir has also shifted with a growing body of literature documenting human rights abuses alongside raising awareness to an international community of activists, which has led to an evolution of the azadi movement into a movement for social justice and human rights. This has been facilitated by social media spaces and heterogeneous activist groups framing their movement as aligned with other social justice movements and anti‐discrimination campaigns. Framing the Kashmir self‐determination movement as a human rights issue appeals to a wider spectrum of non‐Kashmiri activists, especially those already involved in campaigns against the marginalisation of certain groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the associations between democratic performance, secular--traditional value orientation, and satisfaction with democracy in India and Pakistan through the lens of democratic performance and modernization theory. In an analysis of data from the 2012 World Values Survey, respect for human rights (one of two measures of democratic performance) has a stronger effect on satisfaction with democracy in India than in Pakistan. Freedom of choice influenced satisfaction with democracy only in India. Rather than having a direct effect, secular--traditional value orientation moderates the relationship between freedom of choice and satisfaction with democracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]