Divided Destinies, Unequal Lives: Economic, cultural and Social rights and the Indian State

On 10th July, 1979, India - by ratifying the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) - became a State party to this treaty body. Reporting guidelines of the Covenant require States to submit periodic reports every five years. After submitting the initial report, India failed to report to the Committee on Eonomic, Social and Cultural Rights (the Committee). Now, after almost two decades, India is scheduled to be reviewed by the Committee in May 2008. India’s upcoming review also provides an opportunity to civil society groups in India to engage with our government, using international forums and spaces. This NGO Report to the Committee was prepared by the People’s Collective for Economic, Social and Cultural Rights for May 2008 review process.