Civil Rights Protection — Mains Questions

Critically analyze the evolution of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution from a mere procedural guarantee to a substantive right encompassing a wide array of civil liberties. Discuss the role of judicial activism in this transformation.

Despite robust constitutional and statutory frameworks, civil rights violations persist in India. Examine the institutional and societal challenges in enforcing civil rights protection and suggest measures for effective implementation.

The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, and its 2015 amendments represent a significant legislative effort to combat caste-based discrimination. Discuss its key provisions and critically evaluate its effectiveness in ensuring social justice for SCs and STs.