Universal Rights

Every Child.
Every Right.

The UNCRC Framework

The 4 Fundamental Pillars

Child rights are categorized into four main groups. Click to explore what they truly mean.

The most basic right. If a child is not alive or healthy, no other right matters.

  • Identity: Right to be born, have a name, and nationality.
  • Nutrition: Right to adequate food and clean water to prevent stunting.
  • Health: Access to vaccines, doctors, and sanitation.

Rights that allow a child to reach their full potential and not just 'survive'.

  • Education: Free and compulsory schooling (RTE Act).
  • Play: Right to leisure, recreation, and cultural activities.
  • Early Care: Emotional and social development support.

Shielding children from harm at home, school, or work.

  • Abuse: Protection from physical, emotional, and sexual violence (POCSO).
  • Labor: Freedom from hazardous work and exploitation.
  • Neglect: Protection from abandonment or drug abuse.

Children are not objects. They have a voice that must be heard.

  • Expression: Freedom to express opinions without fear.
  • Decision Making: Involvement in matters affecting their life.
  • Information: Access to information appropriate for their age.

The Legal Shield: Indian Laws

Knowing the law is the first step to enforcement.

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POCSO Act (2012)

Protection of Children from Sexual Offences. A gender-neutral law. It defines different forms of sexual abuse. Reporting is mandatory—failure to report abuse is a crime.

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RTE Act (2009)

Right to Education. Guarantees free and compulsory education for ages 6-14. Schools cannot deny admission or charge capitation fees. 25% seats reserved for poor.

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Child Labour Act

Total ban on employment of children under 14 in ALL occupations. Adolescents (14-18) banned from hazardous industries like mining or fireworks.

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JJ Act (2015)

Juvenile Justice Act. Handles 'Children in Conflict with Law' (criminals) differently from adults, focusing on reform. Also cares for 'Children in Need of Care'.

⚠️ The Reality Gap

  • 33% of children in India are malnourished (stunted/wasted), violating the Right to Survival.
  • 10M+ children are still engaged in labor despite bans, often in agriculture or hidden domestic work.
  • 53% of children face sexual abuse, yet reporting remains low due to stigma (Ministry of WCD study).

📞 Who Protects Me?

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CHILDLINE India

24/7 toll-free helpline for any child in distress.

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NCPCR

National Commission for Protection of Child Rights. You can file complaints online (e-BaalNidan).

Rights in Action: Is this a Violation?

"A 13-year-old boy helps his father in their grocery shop after school hours."