Article 21 and Beyond: Exploring the Constitutional Contour of the Right to Mental Health in North-East India

Somnath Bhattacharjee

Abstract: The right to mental health is an integral and inseparable component of the right to health, enshrined in Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. An Act had been introduced, too. North East India, comprising eight states, namely Arunachal Pradesh, Assam. Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura face unique mental health challenges due to its geographic isolation, cultural diversity, and history of conflict. This topic examines or scans the mental health landscape in North East India, highlighting the prevalence of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia, and substance abuse. My study identifies several challenges, lacunas, including insufficient mental health infrastructure, shortage of health professionals, and cultural and social barriers to help-seeking behavior. Despite these challenges, the topic proposed paper underscores opportunities for promoting mental health in the region, including integrating mental health into primary healthcare, developing culturally sensitive interventions, and exploiting traditional healing practices. I am supposed to conclude the study by emphatically demonstrating the need for a multi-stakeholder approach to promote mental health in North East India, involving government, civil society, and local communities. By prioritizing mental health and addressing the unique challenges faced by the region, it is possible to ensure the realization of the right to mental health for all individuals in North East India. Our unanimous endeavor may solve many intricate issues involved.

Keywords: Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, Mental Health, Constitutional Paradigm, North East India

How to Cite?: Somnath Bhattacharjee, "Article 21 and Beyond: Exploring the Constitutional Contour of the Right to Mental Health in North-East India", Volume 14 Issue 6, June 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 13-17, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=MR25522140733, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/MR25522140733