The status of the child in India in the context of The Convention on the Rights of the Child

Abstract

India was among the first countries in the world to ratify The Convention on the Rights of the Child. The Convention, which has echoes in the provisions of the Constitution of India, can be directly be invoked before the courts, commissions and other bodies in India. The active role of the judiciary and the Supreme Court and Social Action litigation are also very much a part of the scene, and civil society initiatives have lent support to government efforts. Legislative provisions, strategic programmes and measures undertaken by the government also speak of the proactive approach on the part of the State. Moreover, the media, the GOI and UNICEF have played a critical role in shaping public opinion and creating mass awareness. Despite these developments, access to justice for innumerable children in the country remains a dream. To implement child rights laws in letter and spirit, a consorted effort on the part of citizens, the government and civil society is required.