Shri Ram Nath Kovind Addresses NHRC’s 32nd Foundation Day in New Delhi
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India celebrated its 32nd Foundation Day with a significant event focused on the ‘Human Rights of Prison Inmates’ at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. The event featured Former President Shri Ram Nath Kovind as the Chief Guest, who emphasized the deep-rooted ethical foundations of human rights in Indian culture. He highlighted the NHRC’s evolution into a respected institution and called for a collective commitment to uphold justice and dignity for all, particularly the vulnerable populations, including prison inmates.
NHRC’s Role in Upholding Human Rights
Shri Ram Nath Kovind praised the NHRC for its robust framework in promoting human rights since its establishment in 1993. He noted that the Commission has become a vital voice for the voiceless, advocating for justice, liberty, and equality as enshrined in the Indian Constitution. The former President pointed out that the NHRC’s efforts have brought human rights issues to the forefront of governance, reaffirming that a society’s true measure lies in how it treats its most vulnerable members. He urged all stakeholders to recognize the importance of human dignity and to ensure that economic progress aligns with the welfare of all citizens.
Kovind also acknowledged the challenges posed by modern societal transformations, particularly for workers in informal sectors. He highlighted the precarious conditions faced by sanitation workers, construction laborers, and migrant workers, emphasizing that their rights must be protected as they contribute significantly to the nation’s growth. He stressed that the welfare of these workers should be a benchmark for measuring societal success, advocating for a balance between economic development and human dignity.
Addressing Emerging Challenges
During his address, Shri Kovind raised concerns about the impact of climate change on human rights, particularly regarding migration and displacement. He asserted that every individual, regardless of their status, deserves access to identity, security, and essential services. The former President also emphasized the importance of mental health as a fundamental human right, commending the NHRC for its advisories in this area.
Kovind underscored the need for prison systems to evolve from mere confinement spaces to environments that promote rehabilitation and reform. He expressed satisfaction with the NHRC’s initiative to hold a National Conference on the ‘Human Rights of Prison Inmates,’ aimed at fostering gender-sensitive and child-friendly practices within prisons. He called upon prison authorities to create an enabling environment that allows inmates to reintegrate into society as responsible citizens.
NHRC’s Achievements and Future Directions
Justice Shri V. Ramasubramanian, NHRC Chairperson, provided insights into the Commission’s accomplishments over the past 32 years. He reported that the NHRC has addressed over 23 lakh cases, including approximately 2,900 cases of suo motu cognizance. The Commission has recommended over Rs 263 crore in monetary relief to victims of human rights violations, demonstrating its commitment to justice and accountability.
Ramasubramanian highlighted the establishment of 12 core groups comprising experts and NGOs to evaluate government schemes related to human rights. He noted the importance of capacity-building programs for various stakeholders, including police and correctional officers, to foster empathy and accountability in governance. The NHRC’s initiatives aim to enhance public awareness of human rights and ensure that citizens, even in remote areas, can access justice through various channels.
Commitment to a Just Society
In his closing remarks, Shri Bharat Lal, NHRC Secretary General, reiterated the Commission’s role as the conscience keeper of human rights in India. He emphasized the NHRC’s ethical leadership and the trust it has built among vulnerable populations. The Commission’s focus on capacity building and training reflects its commitment to improving governance systems and ensuring justice for all.
The NHRC’s international engagement has also expanded, with active participation in global forums and collaborations with other national human rights institutions. This commitment was further underscored by India’s recent election to the Human Rights Council for a three-year term, reflecting the nation’s dedication to upholding human rights on a global scale. The event concluded with a call for collective responsibility in safeguarding human rights, urging all citizens to strive for a more humane and inclusive society.
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