Human Rights and Democratic Governance

सार

Human rights and democratic governance are two vital and inseparable pillars of a just, free and inclusive society. The fundamental principles of human rights and democratic governance, respectively, are the recognition of the dignity of the individual and their equality, and the set of institutional processes where these are safeguarded and implemented. Democracy is not just about conducting elections or rule of the majority; it's about constitutionalism, rule of law, political participation, accountability, equality, liberty and respect for human dignity.

Human rights in the same manner cannot be ensured and protected without establishing democratic institutions that provide opportunities for political participation, representation, transparency and judicial remedies.

The present paper discusses the concept of human rights, historical evolution of human rights, the relationship between human rights and democratic governance, constitutional protections of rights in India and some of the major contemporary challenges to human rights. The work also discusses the various constitutional and extra-constitutional institutions like the legislature, judiciary, civil society, media and human rights commissions, which help in strengthening democratic governance. The paper concludes with a note on the importance of ensuring human rights for the sustenance and strengthenening of democracy.