PM IAS GS 4 SYNOPSIS

Answer:
Rights mean claims & entitlements of individuals and groups that are considered to be necessary for leading a life of respect and dignity and are essential for their well-being.
There are certain rights that are considered universal in nature because:
• They are rights inherent to all human beings since all human beings are born free and equal.
They have a right to have rights. For example, Freedom is an essential condition for life and entitlement of the right to freedom is hence a universal claim.
• They are natural rights, that is, they are derived from the law of nature and not dependent on laws or customs of any particular culture or government. For example, Right to life and liberty.
• They impact all people without distinction of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, language, religion, nationality etc. For example, Right against Exploitation & Right to Justice affects all people equally & hence makes a case for their universal availability.
• They are inalienable as exclusion from any of such rights would lead to discrimination, unequal access to resources and opportunities, inability to realize their potential. For example, No one shall be held in slavery or servitude or be subjected to torturous or degrading treatment.
• They are required to meet the basic needs, for example, the right to develop one’s own talent and skills, right to opportunities etc. ensures that certain sections are not denied the equal chance to have a dignified life in terms of food, clothing and shelter.
Although mostly individualistic, the above discussed rights are required for the overall development of the society because an empowered individual only would lead to a sustainably empowered society. Entitlement to these universal rights would help build a world in which every man, woman and child lives life with liberty and is protected from oppression, violence and discrimination.