New Delhi ( 10 Dec.2025 ) : The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, graced and addressed the Human Rights Day celebration organised by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in New Delhi today
In her address, the President stated that universal human rights are inalienable and form the bedrock of a just, equitable and compassionate society. Recalling the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 77 years ago, she highlighted the timeless truth affirmed by the world: every human being is born free and equal in dignity and rights. She noted that India played a significant role in shaping global human rights frameworks, inspired by the vision of the nation’s freedom fighters.
The President emphasized that human rights must reach the last mile, aligned with the philosophy of Antyodaya. She urged every citizen to participate actively in India’s developmental journey towards building a Viksit Bharat by 2047, ensuring that growth is truly inclusive.
Highlighting the constitutional vision, Smt. Murmu said that human rights strengthen social democracy, encompassing the right to live without fear, learn without barriers, work without exploitation and age with dignity. She reiterated India’s long-held belief that peace and justice are inseparable.
The President expressed satisfaction over the proactive role of NHRC, State Human Rights Commissions, the judiciary and civil society in safeguarding the constitutional ethos. She noted NHRC’s efforts in taking suo motu cognizance of issues affecting Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, women, and children, as well as its discussions on the human rights of prison inmates during its Foundation Day celebrations.
Reflecting on women’s rights, the President described women’s empowerment as a central pillar of human rights. She appreciated NHRC’s initiative in organising a conference on women’s safety in public spaces and workplaces, expressing confidence that its findings would contribute meaningfully to women’s empowerment.
Smt. Murmu highlighted that while NHRC articulates certain ideals, the Government of India has been translating these ideals into action through large-scale transformative initiatives. Over the past decade, the nation has transitioned from entitlement to empowerment and from charity to rights, ensuring access to essential services such as clean water, electricity, LPG, healthcare, banking, education and sanitation—laying the foundation for a life of dignity for every household.
The President also noted the government’s recent implementation of the four Labour Codes, aimed at wages, industrial relations, social security, and occupational safety and health—reforms that will create a future-ready workforce and more resilient industries.
The President concluded by calling upon every citizen to recognize that protecting the rights and dignity of fellow citizens is a shared duty. Governments and institutions alone cannot safeguard human rights; it requires the collective commitment of a compassionate and responsible society.
