India ratified, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) which came into force in 1976. After signing this covenant India is bound_______________.

(1) to bring legislation to protect human rights of its citizens

(2) to provide free legal assistance to the needy as per the covenant

(3) to recognize international legal obligations as part of the law of land

(4) to interpret the Indian Constitution in the light of International treaties

2

The correct answer is Option 2: (2) to provide free legal assistance to the needy as per the covenant

India has ratified the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights which came into force in 1976 and is bound by the International obligation to provide free legal assistance as per the requirements of the Covenant.

The Indian Supreme Court has adopted the method of giving effect to international legal obligations when these obligations exist in the Indian legal system expressly. The Court also recognized international legal obligations as part of the law of the land when Indian law can be harmoniously interpreted as in conformity with international law.