The argument that socio-economic rights are not “real” human rights is far too simplistic. While the phrase “progressive realization” gives many governments an excuse to treat these rights as second class, both the Indian and South African courts have expressly recognized their importance. It’s ti
NGOs working with untouchables and bonded labour face hostility from upper castes. For these groups, it’s nearly impossible to raise local funds. Without foreign funding, many would have to scale down their activities or face shutdown. A contribution to the openGlobalRights debate on Funding for H
For human rights to find resonance in the global South, we must connect them to the existing beliefs of the people by engaging religious leaders. Without this cultural resonance, the human movement is doomed to fail. A contribution to the openGlobalRights debate, Religion and Human Rights.
Hinduism preaches tolerance, the Indian Constitution enshrines plurality. So why has divisive political communalism become acceptable, even electable, when disguised as economic growth? Responding to Arvind Sharma, this article shows the dark side of religion and rights, and says religion itself c
Contrary to popular perception, Hindu philosophies of moral agency, duty and universal truth cohabit with human rights values. A contribution to the openGlobalRights debate, Religion and Human Rights. Español, العربية, Français
If international funding compromises the work of domestic human rights groups, what should international donors do? It is admirable for local groups to refuse international aid on principle, but the ethical implications for global human rights funders are complex. A contribution to the openGlobalR
Dependence on institutional funding has depoliticized, monetized and corrupted much of the human rights work in India. While state-control of human rights funds is objectionable, rights movements will be durable and effective only when independent of big sponsors. A response to Ananth Guruswamy, R
To fight the chilling effect created by new laws on foreign funding, Indian human rights NGOs need to develop support for funding among citizens. Though difficult, in the long run groups that have public legitimacy will be more difficult for governments to control and suppress. A contribution to t
The Indian government uses the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act to block global support to NGOs that question the state. The FCRA must go, but meanwhile, civil society bodies must seek local support. A response to Ravi Nair and James Ron and Archana Pandya. A contribution to the openGlobalRight
As the world’s largest democracy, India should champion human rights globally. Conscious of its own tawdry record, however, New Delhi’s voice is seldom heard. India should clean up its act and aggressively champion human rights abroad. Scrapping the draconian Armed Forces Special Powers Act would
One of the country’s most informed human rights experts explains how India blocks foreign funding for rights work it doesn’t like. Philanthropists avoid supporting work that will anger the state so the only organizations able to tackle the most sensitive rights issues are those funded by small con
India continues to view human rights through the narrow prism of a nonexistent Cold War. This won’t change until Indian civil society decides to get involved. A contribution to the openGlobalRights debate on Emerging Powers and Human Rights. தமிழ்
