In many Indian households, serious discussions are often kept away from children. Even when present, children are frequently asked to stay silent or leave the room when they try to voice their opinions. Such practices, though culturally rooted, go against the fundamental rights guaranteed to children—especially their right to express themselves freely.
Globally, children’s rights are protected under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), a treaty adopted in 1989 and ratified by India in 1992. This ratification binds India to ensure that children can enjoy all rights outlined in the treaty, including their right to participate in decisions that affect their lives.
Who is a Child?
According to the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000, a child is defined as any individual below the age of 18 years. This aligns with the UNCRC definition and emphasizes the need to protect the youngest members of our society. As per the United Nations, India is home to over 436 million children—about 40% of its total population—making child rights an urgent priority for national development.
Key Child Rights in India
1. Right to Equality and Protection Against Discrimination
Articles 14 to 18 of the Indian Constitution ensure that every child is treated equally, irrespective of caste, religion, gender, or socio-economic status. These articles prohibit discrimination and lay the foundation for an inclusive society.
2. Right to Freedom of Expression
Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution and Articles 12 & 13 of the UNCRC empower children to express their thoughts, concerns, and ideas freely. This right fosters self-esteem and encourages participation in community and family matters.
3. Right to Education
The Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, enforces Article 21-A of the Constitution, making free and compulsory education a legal right for children aged 6 to 14. Education serves as a powerful tool in breaking cycles of poverty and inequality.
4. Right to Life and Personal Liberty
Article 21 ensures that children are entitled to live with dignity, free from exploitation. This includes protection from child labor, trafficking, abuse, and child marriage. Several laws such as POCSO Act (2012) and Juvenile Justice Act (2015) work alongside the Constitution to safeguard these rights.
5. Right to Identity
The UNCRC affirms every child’s right to a name, nationality, and family ties. In India, laws like the Registration of Births and Deaths Act (1969) and Citizenship Act (1955) protect these essential identity rights. Having a legal identity is crucial for accessing government schemes, protection, and justice.
Why Protecting Child Rights Matters
Child rights go beyond legal documentation—they ensure that children grow up in safe, nurturing environments where they are free to explore, learn, and become responsible citizens. Upholding these rights creates a foundation for a just, inclusive, and empowered society.
Cancer Care Trust: Championing Child Rights on the Ground
At Cancer Care Trust, we believe that every child deserves a future filled with hope and dignity. Since 2013, we’ve been working tirelessly to support the rights and well-being of underprivileged children in India. Our initiatives span:
- Free Education and Skill Development
- Health and Nutrition Support
- Awareness Campaigns on Child Rights
- Vocational Training Programs
- Daily Meals under Annapurna Rasoi Initiative
We also conduct outreach programs in rural and urban slums, spreading awareness about child rights and enabling families to understand and claim them.
Support Our Mission – Donate Today
Protecting children’s rights is a collective responsibility. Your donation can help us provide education, healthcare, meals, and safety to a child in need. At Cancer Care Trust, your contribution is not just charity—it’s an investment in India’s future.
Visit our website to donate or volunteer: https://cancercaretrust.org
Together, let’s create a world where every child is safe, educated, and empowered.
