HUMAN RIGHTS: EVOLUTION, CHALLENGES, AND THE WAY FORWARD

AUTHOR – UTKARSH SINGH YADAV* & DR. SRIJAN MISHRA**

* LL.M (CRIMINAL LAW) SCHOLAR AT AMITY LAW SCHOOL, AMITY UNIVERSITY UTTAR PRADESH LUCKNOW CAMPUS

** ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AT AMITY LAW SCHOOL, AMITY UNIVERSITY UTTAR PRADESH LUCKNOW CAMPUS

BEST CITATION – UTKARSH SINGH YADAV & DR. SRIJAN MISHRA, HUMAN RIGHTS: EVOLUTION, CHALLENGES, AND THE WAY FORWARD, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (5) OF 2025, PG. 826-836, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344

ABSTRACT

The present research paper provides a comprehensive analysis of human rights, tracing their historical origins, philosophical foundations, and progressive development in international and Indian legal frameworks. Beginning with ancient civilisations and socio-religious traditions, the study highlights how the notion of human dignity has evolved into a globally recognized legal and moral standard. The paper explores the milestones such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and pivotal international treaties that have laid the foundation for the modern human rights regime.

In the Indian context, the paper critically examines the constitutional provisions, particularly Fundamental Rights under Part III, and the role of Directive Principles of State Policy in shaping a just and humane society. It also analyses the functioning of institutions such as the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the proactive role of the Indian judiciary through landmark judgments in expanding the scope of human rights protection.

The paper identifies and evaluates contemporary challenges faced by human rights globally and in India, such as custodial torture, mass surveillance, restrictions on freedom of speech, and the marginalization of vulnerable communities including women, Dalits, LGBTQ+ individuals, refugees, and persons with disabilities. The rapid advancement in technology has also raised critical concerns regarding digital privacy, cyber freedoms, and state overreach.

Further, the study highlights the contribution of civil society, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and international bodies in advocating and defending human rights. It emphasizes the need for legislative reforms, institutional strengthening, public awareness, and global cooperation to address the emerging human rights crisis.

Keywords:

Human Rights, Fundamental Rights, UDHR, Constitutional Law, NHRC, Judiciary, Marginalized Communities, Digital Rights, Civil Liberties, International Law, Civil Society, Surveillance, Human Dignity, Legal Reforms, Social Justice.