THE ROLE OF FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS IN PROTECTING CHILDREN FROM EXPLOITATION

AUTHOR – DR. RAMESH LUNAVATH,DEPARTMENT OF LAW, KAKATIYA UNIVERSITY, HANUMAKONDA – 506009

BEST CITATION – DR. RAMESH LUNAVATH, THE ROLE OF FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS IN PROTECTING CHILDREN FROM EXPLOITATION, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 6 (1) OF 2026, PG.761-770, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344. DOI – https://doi.org/10.65393/TAOG3535

Abstract

Children are among the most vulnerable sections of society and are often exposed to various forms of exploitation, including economic, sexual, physical, emotional, and digital abuse. The Constitution of India, through its Fundamental Rights, provides a strong legal framework for safeguarding children against such exploitation and ensuring their holistic development. This paper examines the role of Fundamental Rights in protecting children from exploitative practices by analyzing relevant constitutional provisions such as the Right to Equality, Right to Freedom, Right Against Exploitation, Right to Life and Personal Liberty, and Right to Education. It also explores the supportive role of Directive Principles of State Policy in promoting child welfare and addressing the socio-economic factors that contribute to child vulnerability. The study further highlights the significance of child-centric legislations, judicial interpretations, and institutional mechanisms in enforcing constitutional mandates. Despite the existence of comprehensive legal safeguards, challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, lack of awareness, enforcement gaps, and emerging digital threats continue to impede effective implementation. The paper emphasizes the need for integrated policy interventions, strengthened enforcement mechanisms, and community participation to create a protective environment for children. Ensuring the effective realization of Fundamental Rights is essential for building a child-friendly legal system that promotes the dignity, security, and overall development of every child in India.

Keywords: Child Rights, Fundamental Rights, Child Exploitation, Constitutional Safeguards, Juvenile Justice, Right to Education, Child Protection Laws, Judicial Activism.