In the recent Aaradhya Bachchan case, the Delhi High Court has forbidden the circulation of false YouTube videos claiming the star kid to be “critically ill” and “no more”.
During the hearing, Justice C Hari Shankar stated that every child is entitled to be treated with honour and respect.
The Indian Constitution entitles several legal rights to children irrespective of their caste, creed, colour, and gender. Here are a few legal rights established for children.
Right to personal liberty: Article 21 says no child shall be deprived of their life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.
Right to be protected from violence: As per articles 19 and 34, children must not suffer ill-treatment, physical violence, and all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse.
Right to freedom of expression: Article 19(1) A gives children the liberty of expression as long as their opinions and knowledge do not harm others.
Right to Education: Article 21 A provides free and compulsory education to all children in the age group of six to 14 years.
Right against exploitation: Articles 23 and 24 protect children from being trafficked and forced into bonded labour, and prohibit their employment in factories, mines, etc.
Right to equal opportunities: Article 39(F) states that children must be given opportunities and facilities to develop in a healthy manner and in conditions of freedom and dignity.
Right to health: Article 21 confers the rights to health and medical care to all citizens including children.