Further hindrance to freedom of expression and the media
Political violence and vote rigging in Union Parishad
elections
Extrajudicial killings
Shooting in the legs of detainees
Allegations of enforced disappearance
Public lynching continues
Human rights violations along the border
Human rights abuses on members of minority communities
Violence against women
Hindrance to human rights activities

Odhikar believes that democracy is not merely a process of electing a ruler; it is theresult of the peoples’ struggle for inalienable rights, which become the fundamental premise to constitute the State. Therefore, the individual freedoms and democratic aspirations of the citizens – and consequently, peoples’ collective rights and responsibilities – must be the foundational principles of the State.
The democratic legitimacy of the State is directly related to its willingness, commitment and capacity to ensure human rights, dignity and integrity of citizens. If the state does not ensure full participation in the decision making process at all levels – from the lowest level of administration to the highest level – it cannot be called a ‘democratic’ state. Citizens realise their rights and responsibilities through participation and decision making processes. The awareness about the rights of others and collective benefits and responsibilities, can be ensured and implemented through this process as well. The Parliament, Judiciary and Executive cannot and should not, have any power to abrogate fundamental civil and political rights through any means, as such rights are inviolable and are the foundational principles of the State.

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