By Dr. Farzeen Unit V: Challenges and Barriers to Civil Rights 1. Introduction Civil rights are meant to guarantee equality, dignity, and freedom for all citizens. However, in practice, these rights face barriers and challenges due to systemic flaws, social hierarchies, and structural inequalities. These challenges weaken democracy, social justice, and constitutional values . 2. System Barriers (a) Corruption Meaning: Misuse of public office for private gain. Forms: Bribery, nepotism, embezzlement, favoritism. Impact on Civil Rights: Delays in justice delivery. Denial of welfare schemes (ration, pensions, scholarships). Poor service delivery in health, education, employment. Example: PDS (ration system) corruption depriving poor families of food grains. (b) Misuse of Power Meaning: When authorities act arbitrarily, violating constitutional rights. Forms: Police excesses: Fake encounters, custodial deaths. Political misuse: ...