TL;DR As a citizen of India, you have rights under the Constitution (fundamental rights) and duties (fundamental duties). You also have rights under laws made by Parliament and State legislatures (e.g. right to information, grievance redress). This doc explains how to understand and use your rights.
Rights under the Constitution
Fundamental rights are in Part III of the Constitution. They include the right to equality, freedom of speech and expression, freedom of religion, right against exploitation, cultural and educational rights, and the right to constitutional remedies. The State must protect these rights. If they are violated, you can approach the courts (e.g. Supreme Court under Article 32, High Courts under Article 226).
Rights under laws
Laws made by Parliament and State legislatures give you more rights. For example, the Right to Information (RTI) Act lets you ask for information from public authorities. Grievance redress systems (e.g. CPGRAMS at the Centre, State portals) give you a channel to complain and get a response. Consumer laws, labour laws, and others also create rights. These work together with your constitutional rights.
Rights and duties together
The Constitution also lists fundamental duties (Article 51A). Rights and duties go together: when we respect the Constitution, others’ rights, and the law, we help make democracy stronger. You can raise issues with the government in a clear, respectful way — that is both using your rights and doing your duty.
What you can do
- Read the Constitution section in this documentation (e.g. Introduction, Preamble, Right to Equality, Right to Constitutional Remedies) to know your fundamental rights.
- Use grievance portals (Centre/State) and RTI when you have a complaint or need information.
- When you raise an issue, keep proof (e.g. complaint number, copies of letters). Use the links in How to Raise a Public Issue and Resources and Templates for next steps.
Related: Introduction: Constitution for Citizens · Right to Equality · Right to Constitutional Remedies · How to Raise a Public Issue · Resources and Templates