About Us

About Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC).


The Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC) is committed to advocating for and protecting human rights across India. Founded in 2017 by Dr. Purna Chandra Sahoo, BHRC has emerged as a prominent voice in the realm of human rights, working tirelessly to promote justice, equality, and dignity for all individuals.

At BHRC, we believe that every individual deserves to live a life of dignity and respect. Our organization is driven by the core principles of justice, equality, and human rights for all. Through our work, we strive to create a society where every voice is heard, every right is protected, and every person is empowered.

What sets BHRC apart is our unwavering commitment to advocacy and action. We actively engage with policymakers, government bodies, and other stakeholders to drive policy reforms that promote and safeguard human rights. Our strong network allows us to influence change at both the grassroots and national levels, ensuring that the rights of all individuals are prioritized.

Education and awareness form the cornerstone of our efforts. We believe that knowledge is power, and by equipping individuals with a deep understanding of their rights, we empower them to become agents of change. Through workshops, training programs, and awareness campaigns, we strive to build a society that is knowledgeable, engaged, and actively involved in
promoting human rights.

BHRC stands firmly in support of marginalized and vulnerable communities. We work tirelessly to protect the rights of women, children, indigenous people, persons with disabilities, and sexual minorities. By amplifying their voices, advocating for their rights, and addressing their unique challenges, we strive to create a more inclusive and equitable society.

We firmly believe that support for victims of human rights violations is paramount. BHRC provides legal aid, counseling services, and a safe space for victims to seek assistance and guidance. We are committed to ensuring that those affected by human rights abuses find justice, healing, and support on their journey towards recovery.

Collaboration lies at the heart of our approach. We actively collaborate with other human rights organizations, civil society groups, and individuals who share our passion and commitment. By forging strong partnerships, we leverage collective knowledge, expertise, and resources to maximize our impact and drive meaningful change.

At BHRC, we are driven by a vision of a society where human rights are not just words on paper, but a lived reality for all individuals. We invite you to join us in our quest for a more just, equitable, and rights-respecting society. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for generations to come.

Our Mission

BHRC's mission is multifaceted, encompassing several key objectives:

  1. Advocacy and Awareness: We strive to raise awareness about human rights issues through advocacy campaigns, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives. By fostering dialogue and promoting understanding, we aim to build a more inclusive and rights-conscious society.

  2. Policy Engagement: BHRC actively engages with policymakers, government agencies, and international organizations to advocate for policy reforms that strengthen human rights protections and ensure accountability for human rights violations.

  3. Legal Support: Our organization provides legal aid and support to individuals and communities facing human rights abuses. We offer guidance, representation, and access to justice to empower victims and promote accountability for perpetrators.

  4. Research and Documentation: BHRC conducts research, collects data, and produces comprehensive reports on human rights issues, contributing valuable insights to the discourse on human rights in India.

  5. Capacity Building: We invest in capacity-building initiatives, training programs, and skill development workshops to empower activists, advocates, and grassroots organizations in their efforts to promote and defend human rights.

Our Vision

BHRC envisions a future where every person enjoys the full range of human rights, free from discrimination, oppression, and violence. We strive to create a society where human dignity is upheld, diversity is celebrated, and justice is accessible to all.

Below are the important human rights

Human Rights and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Human Rights and Civil and Political Rights
Human Rights and Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights
Human Rights and Gender Equality
Human Rights and Children’s Rights
Human Rights and Racial Equality
Human Rights and Freedom of Expression
Human Rights and Right to Privacy
Human Rights and Right to Education
Human Rights and Right to Health
Human Rights and Right to Work
Human Rights and Right to Fair Trial
Human Rights and Right to Freedom from Torture
Human Rights and Right to Freedom of Religion or Belief
Human Rights and Indigenous Rights
Human Rights and Right to Water and Sanitation
Human Rights and Right to Freedom of Movement
Human Rights and Right to a Clean Environment
Human Rights and Right to Political Participation
Human Rights and Right to Disability Inclusion
Human Rights and Right to Non-Discrimination
Human Rights and Right to Access to Information
Human Rights and Right to Reproductive Health
Human Rights and Right to Adequate Housing
Human Rights and Right to Food
Human Rights and Rights of Persons in Detention
Human Rights and Right to Peaceful Assembly
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Mental Health Conditions
Human Rights and Access to Justice for Children
Human Rights and Artificial Intelligence
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with HIV/AIDS
Human Rights and Access to Quality Education for Girls
Human Rights and Access to Justice for Indigenous Communities
Human Rights and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Conflict Settings
Human Rights and Rights of LGBTQ+ Individuals
Human Rights and Freedom of Associations
Human Rights and Refugee Rights
Human Rights and Sustainable Business Practices
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Albinism
Human Rights and Cultural Rights
Human Rights and Rights of Stateless Persons
Human Rights and Gender-Based Violence
Human Rights and Socio-Economic Rights
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Autism
Human Rights and Access to Justice for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities
Human Rights and Rights of Indigenous Women
Human Rights and Rights of Older
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Visual Impairments
Human Rights and Digital Rights
Human Rights and Access to Clean Water and Sanitation
Human Rights and Rights of Migrant Workers
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Epilepsy
Human Rights and Rights of Prisoners’ Families
Human Rights and Access to Reproductive Health
Human Rights and Data Privacy
Human Rights and Freedom of Thought, Conscience, and Religion
Human Rights and Rights of Sex Workers
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities in Conflict Settings
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Education
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Employment
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Healthcare
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Public Spaces
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Technology
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Sports
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Transportation
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Communication
Human Rights and Rights of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities in Conflict

Core Values

BHRC is guided by the following core values:

  • Human Dignity: We believe in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, and we work to ensure that all human beings are treated with respect and compassion.

  • Equality: We advocate for equal rights and opportunities for all, regardless of race, gender, religion, caste, or socioeconomic status. We challenge discrimination and promote inclusivity.

  • Justice: We stand for fairness, accountability, and the rule of law. We seek justice for victims of human rights abuses and work to address systemic injustices that perpetuate inequality.

  • Transparency: BHRC operates with transparency, integrity, and ethical conduct in all our activities and engagements.

Get Involved

There are several ways you can support BHRC's work and contribute to the promotion of human rights:

  • Volunteer: Join us as a volunteer and contribute your time, skills, and passion to our advocacy efforts and programs.

  • Donate: Your financial support enables us to continue our vital work in protecting and promoting human rights. Consider Making a Donation to BHRC today.

  • Advocate: Raise awareness about human rights issues in your community, advocate for policy changes, and be a voice for justice and equality.

  • Collaborate: Partner with BHRC on projects, campaigns, and initiatives that align with our mission and values. Together, we can make a meaningful impact.

Contact Us

For inquiries, partnership opportunities, or to learn more about BHRC's work, please contact us at info@bhrcindia.in or visit our website www.bhrcindia.in.

Thank you for your interest in BHRC and your commitment to promoting human rights and social justice.

Below is a comprehensive long-form script that can be used by the Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC) for awareness programs, seminars, training sessions, conferences, Human Rights Day celebrations, educational campaigns, and publications.

HUMAN RIGHTS: PROTECTING HUMAN DIGNITY, JUSTICE, EQUALITY AND FREEDOM

A Comprehensive Human Rights Awareness Script

Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC)

Prepared by:
Dr. Purna Chandra Sahu
Chairperson & Founder
Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC)


INTRODUCTION

Human rights are the fundamental rights and freedoms that belong to every human being simply because they are human. These rights are universal, indivisible, inalienable, and interdependent. They apply equally to every individual regardless of race, religion, caste, gender, language, nationality, disability, political opinion, economic status, or social background.

The Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC) believes that every person deserves to live with dignity, equality, justice, freedom, and security. Human rights are not privileges granted by governments; they are inherent rights recognized by international law, national constitutions, and moral principles.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 10 December 1948, remains the foundation of modern human rights law. It inspired numerous international treaties and national constitutions, including the Constitution of India, which guarantees Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy.


1. HUMAN RIGHTS AND THE UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights consists of 30 Articles guaranteeing civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.

Its principles include:

  • Equality before the law

  • Right to life

  • Freedom from discrimination

  • Freedom from slavery

  • Freedom from torture

  • Right to education

  • Right to work

  • Right to health

  • Freedom of religion

  • Freedom of expression

  • Right to participate in government

  • Right to social security

BHRC encourages governments, institutions, and citizens to uphold these universal values.


2. CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS

Civil and political rights protect individuals from abuse of state power.

These include:

  • Right to life

  • Right to liberty

  • Right to equality

  • Freedom of speech

  • Freedom of assembly

  • Freedom of association

  • Freedom of religion

  • Right to vote

  • Right to fair trial

  • Freedom from arbitrary arrest

These rights strengthen democracy and the rule of law.


3. ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL RIGHTS

Every individual has the right to:

  • Education

  • Healthcare

  • Adequate food

  • Safe housing

  • Employment

  • Fair wages

  • Social security

  • Cultural participation

Economic justice is essential for human dignity.


4. GENDER EQUALITY

Women and girls must enjoy equal rights in education, employment, healthcare, politics, and inheritance.

BHRC opposes:

  • Domestic violence

  • Dowry

  • Child marriage

  • Workplace harassment

  • Human trafficking

  • Gender discrimination

Gender equality benefits society as a whole.


5. CHILDREN'S RIGHTS

Every child deserves:

  • Love and protection

  • Education

  • Nutrition

  • Healthcare

  • Safe environment

  • Freedom from child labour

  • Protection from abuse

  • Protection from trafficking

Children represent the future of humanity.


6. RACIAL EQUALITY

No person should suffer discrimination because of:

  • Race

  • Colour

  • Ethnicity

  • Tribe

  • Language

  • Origin

Equality promotes peaceful societies.


7. FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION

Every individual has the right to:

  • Speak freely

  • Express opinions

  • Access information

  • Participate in public debate

This freedom carries responsibilities to respect others' rights and public order.


8. RIGHT TO PRIVACY

Privacy includes:

  • Personal information

  • Family life

  • Home

  • Communications

  • Digital privacy

Governments and companies must protect personal data and prevent unlawful surveillance.


9. RIGHT TO EDUCATION

Education empowers individuals to overcome poverty and discrimination.

Education should be:

  • Free at primary level

  • Inclusive

  • Quality-based

  • Accessible to all

Special attention should be given to girls, children with disabilities, and marginalized communities.


10. RIGHT TO HEALTH

Health is a fundamental human right.

Everyone should have access to:

  • Hospitals

  • Medicines

  • Vaccination

  • Maternal care

  • Mental health services

  • Emergency treatment

Healthcare should be affordable and accessible.


11. RIGHT TO WORK

Every person has the right to:

  • Safe working conditions

  • Equal pay

  • Fair wages

  • Freedom from forced labour

  • Social protection

Workers deserve dignity and respect.


12. RIGHT TO FAIR TRIAL

Justice requires:

  • Independent courts

  • Legal representation

  • Presumption of innocence

  • Speedy trial

  • Transparent proceedings

No one should be punished without due process.


13. FREEDOM FROM TORTURE

Torture, cruel treatment, and degrading punishment are absolutely prohibited under international law.

BHRC strongly advocates:

  • Police accountability

  • Humane treatment of detainees

  • Independent investigations

  • Compensation for victims


14. FREEDOM OF RELIGION OR BELIEF

Everyone has the right to:

  • Practice religion

  • Change religion

  • Have no religion

  • Worship peacefully

Religious harmony strengthens democracy.


15. INDIGENOUS PEOPLES' RIGHTS

Indigenous communities have rights to:

  • Land

  • Forests

  • Culture

  • Language

  • Traditional knowledge

  • Self-determination

Their identity must be respected.


16. RIGHT TO WATER AND SANITATION

Safe drinking water and sanitation are essential for health and dignity.

Governments should ensure:

  • Clean drinking water

  • Toilets

  • Hygiene facilities

  • Safe waste management


17. RIGHT TO FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT

Every person has the right to:

  • Travel freely

  • Choose residence

  • Leave any country

  • Return to their country


18. RIGHT TO A CLEAN ENVIRONMENT

A healthy environment supports the rights to life and health.

People deserve:

  • Clean air

  • Safe water

  • Pollution-free surroundings

  • Biodiversity protection

  • Climate resilience


19. POLITICAL PARTICIPATION

Citizens have the right to:

  • Vote

  • Contest elections

  • Join political parties

  • Participate in governance

Democracy depends on informed and active citizens.


20. DISABILITY INCLUSION

Persons with disabilities deserve equal opportunities in:

  • Education

  • Employment

  • Healthcare

  • Transportation

  • Technology

  • Public buildings

  • Sports

  • Communication

  • Justice systems

Accessibility is a human right.


21. NON-DISCRIMINATION

No person should face discrimination based on:

  • Gender

  • Religion

  • Caste

  • Disability

  • Age

  • Ethnicity

  • Language

  • Social origin

Equality before the law is fundamental.


22. DIGITAL RIGHTS AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

As technology advances, human rights must remain protected.

Key priorities include:

  • Data privacy

  • Ethical artificial intelligence

  • Algorithmic fairness

  • Transparency

  • Protection from online discrimination

  • Digital inclusion

  • Cybersecurity

  • Responsible innovation

Technology should enhance, not diminish, human dignity.


23. RIGHTS OF REFUGEES, MIGRANTS, AND STATELESS PERSONS

Every displaced person deserves:

  • Protection

  • Humanitarian assistance

  • Access to healthcare

  • Education

  • Legal identity

  • Freedom from exploitation

Humanitarian principles apply regardless of nationality.


24. RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH HIV/AIDS

Individuals living with HIV/AIDS have the right to:

  • Non-discrimination

  • Confidential healthcare

  • Equal employment opportunities

  • Access to treatment

  • Social inclusion

Stigma must be eliminated.


25. RIGHTS OF OLDER PERSONS

Older persons deserve:

  • Respect

  • Healthcare

  • Financial security

  • Protection from abuse

  • Social participation

  • Dignified living conditions


26. RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH AUTISM, EPILEPSY, VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS, INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES, AND MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS

Every individual deserves:

  • Equal education

  • Inclusive healthcare

  • Employment opportunities

  • Accessible technology

  • Community support

  • Independent living

  • Legal protection

  • Freedom from discrimination

In conflict settings and emergencies, persons with disabilities require specific protection, accessible humanitarian assistance, continuity of medical care, inclusive shelters, accessible information, and equal participation in relief and recovery efforts.


27. RIGHTS OF PRISONERS AND THEIR FAMILIES

Persons in detention retain their fundamental human rights except those lawfully restricted.

They are entitled to:

  • Humane treatment

  • Medical care

  • Legal assistance

  • Family contact

  • Fair judicial processes

Families should not suffer discrimination because a relative is incarcerated.


28. SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICES

Businesses have a responsibility to respect human rights by:

  • Eliminating forced and child labour

  • Ensuring safe workplaces

  • Providing fair wages

  • Preventing discrimination

  • Protecting the environment

  • Respecting local communities

BHRC'S COMMITMENT

The Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC) is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights through legal awareness, advocacy, education, humanitarian service, and collaboration with public institutions and civil society. BHRC works to uphold the principles of justice, equality, dignity, and constitutional values, while encouraging peaceful dialogue and lawful action to address human rights concerns.

CONCLUSION

Human rights are not merely legal concepts—they are the foundation of a just, peaceful, and compassionate society. Every individual has both rights and responsibilities. By respecting one another's dignity and defending the rights of the most vulnerable, we strengthen democracy, social harmony, and sustainable development.

Here's a comprehensive long script on Women's Rights and Children's Rights suitable for seminars, awareness programs, workshops, Human Rights Day events, and BHRC publications.

WOMEN'S RIGHTS AND CHILDREN'S RIGHTS

A Comprehensive Human Rights Awareness Script

Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC)

Prepared by:
Dr. Purna Chandra Sahu
Chairperson & Founder
Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC)


INTRODUCTION

Women and children are the foundation of every society. Their dignity, safety, equality, education, health, and freedom are essential for sustainable development and social justice. Human rights recognize that every woman and every child is entitled to live free from violence, discrimination, exploitation, neglect, and abuse.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) affirms that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. International treaties such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) further strengthen the protection of women and children.

The Constitution of India guarantees equality before the law, protection against discrimination, and special safeguards for women and children through Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, and various welfare laws.

The Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC) is committed to promoting gender equality, protecting children, and ensuring that every woman and child can live with dignity, security, and equal opportunity.


PART I – WOMEN'S RIGHTS

What Are Women's Rights?

Women's rights are fundamental human rights that ensure women enjoy equality, freedom, dignity, and justice in every aspect of life. Women have the same legal, political, economic, social, and cultural rights as men.

These rights include:

  • Right to equality and non-discrimination

  • Right to life, liberty, and personal security

  • Right to education

  • Right to healthcare

  • Right to employment and equal pay

  • Right to own and inherit property

  • Right to participate in political and public life

  • Right to freedom from violence

  • Right to reproductive health and informed decision-making

  • Right to privacy and dignity


Gender Equality

Gender equality means that women and men should enjoy equal opportunities, equal treatment, and equal protection under the law.

Equality requires:

  • Equal access to education

  • Equal employment opportunities

  • Equal wages for equal work

  • Equal participation in leadership

  • Equal access to justice

  • Equal protection under the law

Gender equality benefits families, communities, and the nation.


Violence Against Women

Violence against women is one of the most serious human rights violations.

It includes:

  • Domestic violence

  • Sexual harassment

  • Sexual assault

  • Rape

  • Dowry-related violence

  • Acid attacks

  • Honour-based crimes

  • Human trafficking

  • Cyber harassment

  • Workplace harassment

  • Forced marriage

Every woman has the right to live free from fear, intimidation, and violence.

Governments, institutions, and society have a responsibility to prevent violence, protect survivors, investigate offences fairly, and ensure access to justice.


Women's Right to Education

Education empowers women to become independent, informed, and economically secure.

Every girl and woman should have access to:

  • Free and quality education

  • Safe schools and colleges

  • Equal learning opportunities

  • Vocational training

  • Digital education

  • Lifelong learning

Educating women strengthens families and promotes national development.


Women's Right to Health

Women have the right to accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare.

Healthcare should include:

  • Maternal care

  • Prenatal and postnatal services

  • Family planning information

  • Nutrition

  • Mental health support

  • Preventive healthcare

  • Emergency medical services

No woman should be denied healthcare because of poverty, discrimination, or social barriers.


Economic Rights of Women

Women have the right to:

  • Equal employment opportunities

  • Equal wages

  • Safe workplaces

  • Maternity protection

  • Financial independence

  • Access to credit and entrepreneurship

  • Social security benefits

Economic empowerment helps reduce poverty and promotes equality.


Political Participation

Women have the right to:

  • Vote freely

  • Contest elections

  • Hold public office

  • Participate in policymaking

  • Lead community organizations

Women's leadership strengthens democracy and inclusive governance.


BHRC's Commitment to Women's Rights

BHRC works to:

  • Promote legal awareness

  • Support survivors of violence

  • Encourage gender equality

  • Advocate equal opportunities

  • Organize awareness campaigns

  • Promote women's leadership

  • Assist women in accessing justice through lawful and peaceful means


PART II – CHILDREN'S RIGHTS

Who Is a Child?

According to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), every person below the age of 18 years is a child unless national law provides otherwise.

Children require special protection because of their age, vulnerability, and dependence.


Fundamental Rights of Every Child

Every child has the right to:

  • Life

  • Survival

  • Development

  • Education

  • Healthcare

  • Nutrition

  • Protection

  • Identity

  • Family care

  • Participation in decisions affecting them

  • Equality and non-discrimination


Right to Education

Education is one of the most important rights of every child.

Children deserve:

  • Free and compulsory primary education

  • Safe schools

  • Qualified teachers

  • Inclusive classrooms

  • Equal opportunities for girls and boys

  • Protection from bullying and discrimination

Education enables children to develop their talents and contribute positively to society.


Right to Protection from Abuse

Children must be protected from:

  • Physical abuse

  • Emotional abuse

  • Sexual abuse

  • Child trafficking

  • Child labour

  • Child marriage

  • Neglect

  • Online exploitation

Every child deserves a safe and loving environment.


Child Labour

Children should never be forced into hazardous or exploitative work that interferes with their education, health, or development.

Society must ensure that children attend school, enjoy their childhood, and grow in safe environments.


Right to Health

Every child deserves:

  • Immunization

  • Nutrition

  • Safe drinking water

  • Mental health support

  • Emergency healthcare

  • Clean sanitation

  • Preventive healthcare

Healthy children become healthy adults.


Right to Identity

Every child has the right to:

  • Birth registration

  • A name

  • Nationality

  • Family identity

Legal identity is essential for accessing education, healthcare, and social protection.


Children in Conflict with the Law

Children who come into contact with the justice system must be treated with dignity and in accordance with child-friendly procedures.

They should receive:

  • Legal assistance

  • Protection from abuse

  • Rehabilitation

  • Education and counselling

  • Opportunities for reintegration into society

The primary goal should always be rehabilitation and the child's best interests.


Ending Child Marriage

Child marriage violates children's rights and affects health, education, and future opportunities.

Communities should work together to ensure that every child reaches adulthood free from forced or early marriage.


Digital Safety for Children

Children increasingly use digital technologies and should be protected from:

  • Cyberbullying

  • Online grooming

  • Identity theft

  • Harmful online content

  • Privacy violations

  • Digital exploitation

Parents, schools, technology companies, and governments share responsibility for creating safer digital environments.


Role of Families and Communities

Families and communities play a crucial role in protecting women and children by:

  • Promoting equality and respect

  • Encouraging education

  • Reporting abuse

  • Supporting survivors

  • Rejecting discrimination and harmful practices

  • Creating safe homes and communities


BHRC'S COMMITMENT

The Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC) is dedicated to protecting the rights of women and children through awareness programmes, legal literacy, advocacy, humanitarian service, and cooperation with public authorities and civil society. BHRC encourages lawful action to prevent violence, eliminate discrimination, promote equal opportunities, and ensure that every woman and child enjoys dignity, justice, and security.


CONCLUSION

The progress of a nation is reflected in how it treats its women and children. When women are empowered and children are protected, societies become stronger, healthier, and more prosperous. Respecting their rights is not only a legal obligation but also a moral responsibility shared by governments, institutions, communities, and every individual.

Let us work together to build a future where every woman lives with equality and every child grows in safety, happiness, and hope.

"Protect Women. Protect Children. Protect Human Dignity."

Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC)
Chairperson & Founder: Dr. Purna Chandra Sahu
"Serving Humanity, Protecting Human Rights."

If you plan to publish a BHRC Human Rights Magazine or handbook, this chapter can be expanded into a 25–30 page book chapter with international conventions, Indian constitutional provisions, major laws, landmark Supreme Court judgments, NHRC guidelines, and practical case studies.

BHARATIYA NAGARIK SURAKSHA SANHITA (BNSS), 2023 AND HUMAN RIGHTS

Protecting Justice, Liberty, Dignity, and the Rule of Law

Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC)

Prepared by:
Dr. Purna Chandra Sahu
Chairperson & Founder
Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC)


INTRODUCTION

Human rights and criminal justice are inseparable. Every individual—whether a victim, accused person, witness, child, woman, senior citizen, or prisoner—is entitled to dignity, equality, and protection under the law.

The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS) replaced the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (CrPC) and came into force on 1 July 2024. It establishes the procedures for investigation, arrest, bail, trial, evidence handling, and the administration of criminal justice in India.

The BNSS should always be read alongside the Constitution of India and India's human rights obligations. Fair procedures, accountability, and respect for human dignity remain central to the criminal justice system.


HUMAN RIGHTS PRINCIPLES UNDER BNSS

The implementation of BNSS should uphold the following principles:

  • Right to life and personal liberty

  • Equality before law

  • Presumption of innocence until proven guilty

  • Fair investigation

  • Fair and speedy trial

  • Access to legal aid

  • Protection against arbitrary arrest

  • Respect for human dignity

  • Rights of victims

  • Accountability of investigating agencies

A criminal justice system that respects these principles strengthens public confidence and the rule of law.


RIGHTS OF AN ARRESTED PERSON

Every arrested person should be treated with dignity and humanity.

Important safeguards include:

  • Information about the grounds of arrest.

  • The right to consult and be defended by a lawyer.

  • Production before the appropriate Magistrate within the legally prescribed period.

  • Protection from torture, cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.

  • Access to medical examination where required.

  • Communication with family members or another person entitled to be informed.

These safeguards help prevent arbitrary detention and custodial abuse.


PROTECTION OF WOMEN

Women deserve special procedural protections during criminal investigations.

These include:

  • Respect for dignity and privacy.

  • Sensitive investigation in cases involving sexual offences.

  • Protection from intimidation or harassment.

  • Appropriate legal safeguards during police procedures.

  • Access to support services and justice mechanisms.

Women should be treated with dignity throughout every stage of criminal proceedings.


CHILDREN'S RIGHTS

Children who come into contact with the justice system require special protection.

Their rights include:

  • Child-friendly procedures.

  • Protection from abuse and exploitation.

  • Confidentiality.

  • Rehabilitation and reintegration where appropriate.

  • Access to legal assistance and family support.

The best interests of the child must remain the primary consideration.


RIGHTS OF VICTIMS

Victims deserve justice, respect, and meaningful participation.

Victims should receive:

  • Fair investigation.

  • Timely information regarding proceedings.

  • Protection from threats and intimidation.

  • Respectful treatment.

  • Access to compensation where provided by law.

  • Opportunity to participate as permitted by legal procedure.

Victim-centred justice strengthens confidence in the legal system.


FAIR INVESTIGATION

An impartial investigation is essential to human rights.

Investigating authorities should:

  • Collect evidence objectively.

  • Avoid bias.

  • Respect constitutional safeguards.

  • Protect witnesses.

  • Maintain transparency within the limits of law.

  • Preserve evidence properly.

A fair investigation protects both victims and accused persons.


SPEEDY JUSTICE

Delayed justice harms victims and accused persons alike.

BNSS introduces measures intended to improve the efficiency of criminal proceedings, including greater use of technology, electronic processes, and time-bound procedural steps in several areas.

Timely justice promotes public confidence while reducing unnecessary hardship.


DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY AND HUMAN RIGHTS

Modern criminal justice increasingly uses:

  • Electronic records

  • Digital evidence

  • Video conferencing

  • Electronic communication

  • Digital case management

These tools can improve efficiency but should always respect:

  • Privacy

  • Data protection

  • Fair trial guarantees

  • Transparency

  • Security of personal information

Technology must strengthen—not weaken—human rights.


RIGHTS OF UNDERTRIAL PRISONERS

An undertrial prisoner has not been convicted.

They retain important rights, including:

  • Humane treatment.

  • Medical care.

  • Legal representation.

  • Family contact, subject to lawful restrictions.

  • Speedy trial.

  • Protection from unnecessary or prolonged detention.

BNSS also contains provisions addressing the maximum period for detention of undertrial prisoners in specified circumstances.


LEGAL AID AND ACCESS TO JUSTICE

Justice should never depend solely on financial resources.

Every eligible person should have access to:

  • Legal assistance.

  • Fair hearing.

  • Independent courts.

  • Equal treatment before law.

Access to justice is a cornerstone of human rights.


RESPONSIBILITIES OF LAW ENFORCEMENT

Police officers should:

  • Respect constitutional rights.

  • Act lawfully.

  • Avoid torture and coercion.

  • Conduct impartial investigations.

  • Protect vulnerable persons.

  • Maintain professionalism and accountability.

Public trust depends upon lawful policing.


ROLE OF THE BHARATIYA HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL (BHRC)

The Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC) works to promote awareness of constitutional rights and lawful criminal justice procedures by:

  • Conducting legal awareness programmes.

  • Promoting human rights education.

  • Supporting victims in understanding available legal remedies.

  • Encouraging peaceful and lawful engagement with public authorities.

  • Advocating respect for dignity, equality, and justice for all persons.


CONCLUSION

The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 provides the procedural framework for India's criminal justice system. Its effectiveness depends not only on efficient investigations and trials but also on consistent respect for constitutional guarantees and human rights.

A justice system that protects victims, safeguards the rights of accused persons, ensures fair procedures, and treats every individual with dignity is essential for a democratic society governed by the rule of law.

"Human Rights and Criminal Justice must go hand in hand. Justice without humanity is incomplete, and humanity without justice cannot endure."

Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC)
Chairperson & Founder: Dr. Purna Chandra Sahu
"Serving Humanity, Protecting Human Rights."

Together, let us build an India and a world where every person can live with freedom, equality, justice, and dignity.

"Human Rights for All – Justice, Equality, Dignity, and Peace."

Bharatiya Human Rights Council (BHRC)
Chairperson & Founder: Dr. Purna Chandra Sahu
"Serving Humanity, Protecting Human Rights."

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