On the eve of Human Rights Day, the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Justice V. Ramasubramanian, extended greetings to the nation and highlighted that human rights are not distant ideals but essential daily necessities of life.
Human Rights Day is observed globally on December 10 every year, marking the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations in 1948. Justice Ramasubramanian said the UDHR continues to serve as a moral compass for humanity across the world.
India’s Key Role in Shaping Global Human Rights Ideals
The NHRC Chairperson noted that India played a meaningful role in shaping the UDHR, embedding the timeless ideals of dignity, justice and equality—values deeply rooted in India’s civilisational ethos.
2025 Theme: “Human Rights, Our Daily Needs”
Referring to this year’s theme, “Human Rights, Our Daily Needs”, Justice Ramasubramanian said the theme reinforces that human rights:
Are not privileges, but basic necessities
Sustain hope, dignity and freedom
Enable people to speak freely, live with respect and dream without fear
He said the objective is to reconnect people with these values and inspire awareness, confidence and collective action.
Global Challenges Testing Human Rights Commitments
He also pointed out that humanity today faces unprecedented challenges such as:
Climate change
Environmental degradation
Conflicts and terrorism
These challenges, he said, test the world’s shared commitment to equality and justice and demand solidarity across borders and generations.
NHRC’s Role in Protecting the Vulnerable
Justice Ramasubramanian reaffirmed that the NHRC continues to play a vital role in strengthening the human rights ecosystem in India, while also advocating globally, especially across the Global South.
Over the last three decades, the Commission has worked relentlessly through:
Outreach initiatives
Research
Capacity-building programmes
with special focus on protecting the rights of vulnerable and marginalised sections of society.
Call for a Culture of Universal Well-Being
Calling for public participation, he urged every citizen to stand up for human rights and nurture a culture inspired by “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah” — the well-being of all.
He reaffirmed that guided by the Protection of Human Rights Act, the Indian Constitution, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the NHRC remains firmly committed to upholding dignity and equality for every individual.
