India and the Human Rights Committee

India's position on the proposed Human Rights Committee to replace the present one under the UN is interesting - it seems to be moving away from one of a country scared of being accused of violations to one of a country which would seek enforcement of the norms.

TN govt takes over cable TV

The Tamil Nadu assembly has passed a Bill allowing the government to take over the administration of the cable television network. The move has raised concerns regarding restrictions on free speech.

Communal Riots Bill

Another critique of the Riot Bill.

Lesbian marriage and suicide

Yet another lesbian 'marriage' and attempted suicide - how many young women will die before the law takes notice?

History-sheeter

One of the less known but massive human righs violations in India comes in the guise of the 'history-sheet' maintained by the police. One does not need to actually commit any crime to come under regular police surveillance - if you are a history-sheeter, your civil liberties are significantly curtailed.

Lucknow police arrests gays

Lucknow police arrested four gay men under s. 377 of the IPC, leading to protests in major cities. At least the government cannot now pretend that the antiquated law is not used any more.