Issues of Human Rights in the Select Texts of Dalit and African American Literature

Abstract

The struggle of human beings beyond survival to a dignified life, from human to Human, from life to Life, has germinated the concept of Human Rights. The fundamental lies in the Dignity of Life , security of which fulfils the existence as a human being. Thus Human Rights have a significant role and demand a constant vigil and struggle to secure and maintain them. These are a reflection of the basic principles of humanity, which have been universally valid and have established as justified standards of behaviour. With the unprecedented rate of human socio-political-evolution, the challenges to the fraternal co-existence has surfaced as a challenge, which makes the study and analysis of the Human Rights ever more relevant and contemporary. newlineThe principle text referred for upholding Human Rights throughout the world is Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which remains formulated as a common standard for people of all nations and a common guideline for the governments of all countries to follow. Preamble to the Constitution of India promises Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity to all its citizens. Through its Fundamental Rights under Articles 12 to 35 and Directive Principles of State Policy under Articles 36 to 51, the Constitution emphasizes on the duties of the State to enforce and maintain the rights of its citizens. newlineThis research highlights the Human Rights issues and their violations addressed in the testimonies of the select writers, based on the UDHR. Primarily, it critically evaluates the factors behind oppression, violence and marginalization. This research also focuses on the Human Rights discourse, the suppression of Human Rights and the challenges before their realization. The injustices over Blacks in America and other western world based on race and colour, has similarities and differences with the injustices suffered by the Dalits in India on the lines of caste and untouchability. This research outlines and examines the same. The reading of the texts also highlight how the protagonist