Goonj – India Law Blog & Insights on Society and Spirituality

  🏛️ Celebrating Minorities Rights Day in India: Upholding Dignity and Equality 🌐 Introduction Franklin Roosevelt once said, “No democracy can long survive which does not accept as fundamental to its very existence the recognition of the rights of minorities.” Minorities Rights Day in India is observed annually on November 18th , following the UN General Assembly’s 1992 declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National, or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities . This day raises awareness about challenges faced by religious, linguistic, and social minorities and emphasizes the importance of equality, dignity, and empowerment. India, with its diverse cultures and faiths, is committed to secularism and protecting the rights of all citizens, irrespective of religion, language, or identity. 📜 Definition and Legal Framework Even though the Constitution of India uses the term “minority,” it does not explicitly define it. National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992 (Sect...

The Curious Case of the Equestrian Athlete: Horse or Equipment? 🌐 Introduction When you think of an athlete, images of runners, gymnasts, or basketball players likely come to mind. But what about a horse? Is a horse an athlete or simply a piece of equipment used by its human rider? This debate has sparked significant discussion within India’s equestrian sports community and remains sub-judice in the Delhi High Court . 📜 Background The issue arises from a dispute between the Rajasthan Equestrian Association (REA) and the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI) regarding voting rights for states and classification of horses in competitions. REA Argument: Horses are “just horses” and their costs are often grouped with boats/yachts in the National Sports Code , so they should be treated as equipment. EFI Argument: Equestrian sports are unique, involving two athletes – the human rider and the horse – and require specialized rules, infrastructure, and management. Internation...