The UN Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights recently released their response to India’s second report on compliance with the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. The Committee lauded India for some of their improvements, including the passage of numerous legislative and other measures intended to improve rights and the ratification of several other relevant Conventions. However, many problems of compliance were also noted.
One area of particular concern was the discrimination against women, girls, and unpopular castes and social groups. Despite laws on the books meant to protect these groups, they remain largely unenforced and traditional law dominates. These groups are discriminated against in all areas, including health care, education, and employment. Also, women continue to suffer crimes such as domestic violence, sati, early forced marriage, accusations of witchcraft, and honor killings. Further, many human rights workers are harassed and harmed, while the state officials are given impunity. The Committee therefore calls for greater enforcement of the laws and a more proactive approach to implementing the goals of the Convention.
Compiled from: "Concluding Observations of the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights," Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, May 2008.