India: Human Rights

India’s legislative journey towards gender equality has seen commendable progress. Over the last few decades, a series of statutes and amendments were enacted to protect women from systemic oppression, dowry-related harassment, domestic abuse, and economic neglect. The aim was clear to empower women within the patriarchal structures of Indian society. These laws include Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code IPC, the Dowry Prohibition Act, Section 125 of the Criminal Procedure Code CrPC, and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act 2005, among others.

The Delhi High Court, in Uma Bharti & Anr. v. The Government of NCT of Delhi & Ors. [W.P.(CRL) 2429/2026], directed local police to protect a live-in couple whose relationship was opposed by the woman’s father and brother. The order, passed by Hon’ble Mr. Justice Saurabh Banerjee on 13.08.2026, reaffirms that a consenting adult’s choice to reside with a partner of their choosing remains constitutionally protected, irrespective of familial or societal disapproval.

The Rajasthan High Court examines the controversial practice of Atta-Satta, a reciprocal marriage arrangement between families, and its profound implications for consent, child marriage, and women's dignity. This landmark case challenges whether deeply rooted social customs can override fundamental principles of individual consent and matrimonial rights.

The Supreme Court of India addresses a critical case involving wrongful attribution of criminal antecedents to a citizen during bail proceedings, examining the State's accountability when false records impact fundamental rights. The judgment scrutinizes the government's explanation of a "computer error" and establishes important precedents for protecting personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution.

In an important decision concerning passport rights and the interpretation of Section 6(2)(f) of the Passports Act, 1967, the Andhra Pradesh High Court[1] has clarified that the mere registration of a criminal...

In a significant pronouncement on disability law and parental guardianship rights, the High Court of Kerala at Ernakulam, per Justice C.S. Dias, delivered its judgment on 3rd June 2026 in W.P.(C) No. 12482 of 2025...

In a case that lays bare not just legal questions but also the daily indignities faced by Dalit communities, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court recently passed a powerful order in Thirumalaisamy v. State of Tamil Nadu.

The statutory system of Hindu divorce which exists currently today has been greatly hindered by several contemporary dangers.

In a landmark judgment, the Bombay High Court has reaffirmed the rights of senior citizens under The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007.