Indian Civil Liberties Union (ICLU) comprises experts in law, history, public administration communications, psychology, management, graphic designer students, academicians, and activists. Together a dynamic team shapes the overall working, coordination, informatics, and ideology of the organization
As the law plays a very crucial role in social transformation in any country, taking care that all activities are carried out within the framework provided, is essential. Equally integral is the constant adjustment of the said framework as per the requirements of a dynamic society. There are various laws but many are not aware of those. To address this situation, legal awareness activities in society are imperative. Marginalized, intersection people aren’t able to afford a lawyer for legal advice. ICLU aims to serve society by providing presence wherever needed, by engaging in various legal aid/awareness activities. Some of these activities are highlighted in different ways through different mediums, other times we like to watch from the outside, acting as a guard- looking in.
History
Conceptualized in 2018, the organization has worked tirelessly to protect constitutional values and the rights and freedoms of citizens, and others. The organization has helped in the drafting of the anti-lynching law and implementation of the Supreme Court guidelines in case of lynching. They also reported on the violation of the Model Code of Conduct during the general elections of 2019. ICLU has also prepared easily accessible documents on several legislations ranging from the Right to Information Bill, 2019 to the National Register of Citizens in Assam.
Values
We are committed to the Constitution of India. The Indian Constitution embedded the values in its Preamble. We believe that it is essential to secure the dignity of every individual and equality of status and opportunity to every individual. The preamble prescribes liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship as one of the core values. And we believe that these liberties should be assured to each and every member of all the communities in our country. Article 19 to 21, 21 A and 22 of the Constitution of India ensures certain freedoms to the people.
The ideals of democracy can only be attained when people have certain minimal rights which are very important for living in a free and civil society. Our vision is to achieve a stronger and more confident society, where people are aware of their rights. We hold that the citizens should be provided with equal opportunities and free legal aid for securing justice. Article 39 A of the constitution of India provides equal justice and free legal aid, “The State shall secure that the operation of the legal system promotes justice, on a basis of equal opportunity, and shall, in particular, provide free legal aid, by suitable legislation or schemes or in any other way, to ensure that opportunities for securing justice are not denied to any citizen by reason of economic or other disabilities.”
Team
ICLU is founded by Anas Tanwir and is supported by volunteers in multiple professions.
Mission
Indian Civil Liberties Union is a civil liberties organization working against the human rights violations of the general public and minority communities in particular. The ICLU focuses on various important constitutional issues today. ICLU works to defend and preserve the civil liberties of the individuals as guaranteed by the constitution of India because civil liberties allow us to speak out freely, express our opinions, organize protests and worship in whatever way an individual chooses. It is very important to protect these liberties from unnecessary government intrusion.
ICLU aims to encourage public awareness of constitutional and legal rights and encourage the involvement of the whole community especially youth in preserving and protecting them.