New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu addressed the Human Rights Day celebration organised by the National Human Rights Commission in New Delhi. She underscored the universal nature of human rights and their role in shaping a just and compassionate society. She said the day reminds the world that dignity, equality, and justice are shared human aspirations.
India’s historic role in shaping human rights
The President noted that India helped shape the global human rights framework. She recalled that freedom fighters envisioned a world grounded in fairness and dignity. She emphasised that human rights cover everyone, including people at the last mile. This vision, she added, aligns with the philosophy of Antyodaya. She said inclusive development needs active public participation as India works toward Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Constitutional principles and their modern relevance
She affirmed that India’s Constitution embeds core human rights values. These include the right to live without fear, to learn without obstacles, to work without exploitation, and to age with dignity. She stressed that human rights and development cannot be separated. Further, she said India has long believed that peace and justice are inseparable.
Appreciation for institutions safeguarding rights
The President commended the National Human Rights Commission, State Commissions, the judiciary, and civil society. She said they act as vigilant custodians of constitutional values. She also noted the NHRC’s recent suo motu interventions on issues related to SC and ST communities, women, and children. Additionally, she mentioned its discussions on the rights of prison inmates.
Focus on women’s safety and empowerment
Highlighting women’s empowerment as central to human rights, she appreciated the NHRC’s conference on women’s safety in public spaces and workplaces. She said insights from such initiatives can advance safety and dignity for women.
National shift toward empowerment
The President said the NHRC reflects ideals that the Government of India has worked to implement on a large scale. She added that the national approach has shifted from entitlement to empowerment and from charity to rights. Essential services such as clean water, electricity, cooking gas, healthcare, banking, education, and sanitation now reach more households. This, she said, strengthens dignity for all.
Labour reforms for a future-ready workforce
President Murmu referred to the implementation of the four Labour Codes. These codes cover wages, industrial relations, social security, occupational safety, health, and working conditions. She described these reforms as essential for building a future-ready workforce and stronger industries.
Citizens’ role in protecting human rights
The President concluded by reminding citizens that protecting human rights is a shared duty. She urged every individual to uphold the rights and dignity of others and to help build a compassionate national community.
