India’s civil society faces growing restrictions despite constitutional protections, with increasing legal scrutiny, funding constraints, and digital insecurity. Rights-based CSOs are particularly affected, often facing surveillance, legal harassment, and negative public narratives. In contrast, service-delivery organizations aligned with government priorities face fewer obstacles. Bureaucratic hurdles, shrinking civic space, and limited state engagement further weaken the sector. Systemic reforms are needed to ensure sustainability, freedom, and meaningful collaboration between civil society and the state. 

Network member: