The proposed amendment to the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act 1971 aims to give women safe, protected and choice-based abortions. But on closer examination, the Bill fails to be as progressive as it wants to be. Women still haven’t been given complete autonomy over their bodies.
Posts published in “Gender and Human Rights”
India’s movement for freedom was unique for its reform of regressive social attitudes and norms towards women and marginalised sections of society. But in recent times, the attitudes and norms in some parts of India towards gender and human rights have been a source of concern. Freedom Gazette is reviving India’s legacy as a progressive leader on these issues.
Whenever there is a one percentage point increase in poverty, there is always a 0.7 percent increase in child labour. With falling family incomes, many children might choose to stay out-of-school even after the pandemic subsides, in order to add to the household income.
Mental health is gravely affected in numerous ways by regressive social norms, which curtail individual freedom. Improving the state of mental health in India requires a multidimensional approach - more inclusive policies, better law enforcement, and sustained social reform.
Former Supreme Court Judge, Justice Gopala Gowda, writes that the Supreme Court's infamous response to the migrant worker crisis during COVID-19 will be remembered as its darkest moment – even superseding its actions during the Emergency.
Judgments of the Supreme Court have pointed out that there is an arbitrary application of the death penalty. This is a gross violation of human rights and is also counterproductive. Harsh punishments will not serve as a deterrent, if the punishment itself is applied arbitrarily.
Despite the global spotlight on refugees, those who flee from climate change have little protection under international law since they do not appear to face a ‘fear of persecution’ from the state. As global temperatures rise and millions flee their lands, a crisis is impending and the world needs a solution very quickly.