Copyright © 2026 Authors retain the copyright of this article. This article is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

@article{191155,
        author = {Dr.Sampadika Mohanty},
        title = {Mental Health laws},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {12},
        number = {8},
        pages = {5881-5891},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=191155},
        abstract = {This chapter provides a comprehensive analysis of the intricate relationship between mental health law and social stigma in India. The study critically examines the evolution of Mental Health Laws and Programmes in India, both pre and post-independence, shedding light on their response to societal perceptions of mental health, particularly the pervasive stigma associated with mental illnesses. Beginning with an exploration of the historical context, the paper scrutinizes the impact of British colonial-era laws and their stigmatizing language and practices. It then transitions to the post-independence era, analyzing the shift towards community-based care and the National Mental Health Programme's efforts to mitigate stigma. To assess the contemporary landscape, the study analyzes five seminal cases from Indian High Courts and the Supreme Court, offering valuable insights into the practical implications of these legal frameworks in addressing social stigma. These cases highlight the challenges faced by individuals with mental illnesses within the Indian judicial system, emphasizing the urgent need for legal reforms. The findings of this research reveal a complex interplay between mental health laws, societal attitudes, and the judicial system. In conclusion, the paper provides comprehensive recommendations for reform, emphasizing the importance of destigmatizing language and practices within legislation, ensuring access to mental healthcare, and addressing the socio-economic determinants of mental health. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on mental health law and its role in combating social stigma, ultimately aiming to create a more inclusive and equitable society for individuals with mental health disorders in India.},
        keywords = {},
        month = {January},
        }