| Abstract: | Human rights are the fundamental entitlements that every individual possesses by virtue of being human. These rights are inherent, universal, and essential to human dignity, and cannot be arbitrarily withdrawn or denied. They apply equally to all individuals, regardless of nationality, gender, race, religion, language, social origin, or any other status. The modern international human rights framework emerged largely in response to the widespread atrocities and immense loss of life witnessed during the Second World War. This historical experience led to the establishment of the United Nations and, subsequently, the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948. Human rights are therefore characterized by their universality, indivisibility, interdependence, and inalienability. This paper examines human rights not merely as fundamental entitlements of individuals but also as responsibilities that impose positive obligations upon the State. Governments have a crucial duty to respect, protect, and fulfil human rights and to establish appropriate legal, institutional, and social mechanisms through which individuals can effectively enjoy and exercise these rights. Particular attention is given to vulnerable sections of society, especially women and children, who have historically experienced systematic discrimination, exclusion, exploitation, and denial of their fundamental rights. Vulnerable groups may be understood as communities or individuals whose social, economic, cultural, or structural circumstances make them more susceptible to exploitation and rights violations. Deep-rooted traditions, discriminatory social practices, unequal power relations, and inadequate institutional protection have frequently contributed to the marginalization of such groups. The international community has made significant efforts to strengthen the protection of women’s rights. One of the most important developments in this regard was the adoption of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) by the United Nations. CEDAW provides a comprehensive international framework for eliminating discrimination against women and promoting substantive gender equality. It establishes important standards concerning women’s civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. This paper therefore examines the status and development of women’s rights within Indian society, particularly in the context of internationally recognized human rights standards and India’s legal and constitutional framework. The paper also addresses the rights of another particularly vulnerable group children. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) establishes a comprehensive framework for the protection and promotion of children’s rights. It recognizes the civil, political, economic, social, cultural, health, educational, and developmental rights of children and emphasizes the principle that the best interests of the child must remain a primary consideration in matters affecting them. Accordingly, this paper seeks to examine not only the broader concept and significance of human rights but also the particular challenges faced by vulnerable sections of society. It explores how international human rights instruments, together with national constitutional and legal mechanisms, can serve as important benchmarks for promoting equality, protecting human dignity, preventing discrimination, and advancing social justice. |
