On December 10, 2025, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, held a function at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi to celebrate Human Rights Day, commemorating the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted in 1948.
Presided over by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, the event emphasized the inalienability of human rights as essential for justice and equity. Murmu underscored the necessity of ensuring rights for every citizen in alignment with the philosophy of Antyodaya, advocating for inclusive development and recognizing the interconnectedness of human rights and development.
The President highlighted the role of the NHRC, state human rights commissions, the judiciary, and civil society as guardians of constitutional values. She noted the NHRC’s proactive efforts in addressing issues affecting marginalized communities, including women and children, as well as its discussions on human rights in prisons. The NHRC’s initiatives, including a conference on women’s safety, were praised as vital steps toward empowerment.
Moreover, Murmu pointed out significant government reforms, specifically the four Labour Codes aimed at enhancing workers’ rights and conditions. She called upon all citizens to participate actively in safeguarding human dignity, asserting that protecting human rights requires collective responsibility beyond governmental entities.
NHRC Chairperson Justice V. Ramasubramanian urged introspection and commitment towards promoting human rights as universal values. Echoing Eleanor Roosevelt’s sentiments, he asserted that rights manifest where every individual seeks justice and dignity. The UN Secretary-General António Guterres, represented by UN Resident Coordinator Areti Sianni, emphasized the priority of rights over profit and power.
The ceremony also witnessed the launch of the NHRC Mobile App to facilitate complaint filing and resource access, alongside the unveiling of two publications enhancing public understanding of human rights issues.
A national conference titled ‘Ensuring Everyday Essentials: Public Services and Dignity for All’ was organized to further highlight the importance of human rights. The overall message of the event focused on rededicating efforts to protect and promote human rights as fundamental to a compassionate and just society.
