Cyber crimes, climate change new threats to Human Rights: President Murmu
New Delhi, Dec 10: President Droupadi Murmu on the Human Rights Day celebration organised by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Tuesday, highlighting the need for collective action to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and dignity.
The President stressed the growing importance of mental health, particularly for children, youth, and gig workers in the rapidly evolving economy.
President Murmu asked all stakeholders to take steps to reduce stress, create awareness and combat the stigma surrounding mental illness. As India embraces new economic models like the gig economy, she appealed for measures to safeguard the mental well-being of vulnerable workers.
President Murmu commended institutions like the NHRC for their proactive role in defending the rights of the marginalised and influencing policy changes.
The President highlighted modern threats to human rights, including cybercrimes, privacy issues, and climate change. President further added that the digital age has transformed lives, however, it has introduced challenges such as cyberbullying, misinformation, and AI-driven issues, which demand a secure and equitable digital framework.
“Artificial intelligence, while solving many problems, has also introduced non-human agents as potential violators of rights,” the President said, urging a re-examination of human rights concepts considering such advancements.
Regarding climate change, she added, it necessitates a global rethink of human rights responsibilities. She said that India’s leadership as a voice for the Global South was acknowledged, with initiatives like the Green Credit Initiative, the Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) Movement and the 2022 Energy Conservation (Amendment) Bill demonstrating the country’s commitment to sustainable development.
President Murmu called on the citizens of India to uphold fundamental rights and ensure no one is left behind, especially as India advances socio-economic initiatives that provide housing, clean water, healthcare, and education as rights. “Through sustained efforts and solidarity, we can build a future where every individual leads a life of dignity, opportunity, and fulfilment,” she said.
Vice President Highlights Commitment to Human Rights on 76th Anniversary of UDHR
Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, on the occasion of the 76th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), asked the nation to reaffirm its commitment to justice, equality, and dignity for all.
On Human Rights day, in a message to Parliament, the Vice President reflected on the enduring significance of the UDHR and its alignment with India’s civilisational ethos.
“The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948, remains a cornerstone for human dignity, equality, and justice worldwide. Its 30 articles reflect humanity’s shared aspiration for freedom and equality, affirming the rights of all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, or belief,” the Vice President stated.
He underlined the relevance of this year’s theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” as a call to action for building a peaceful, egalitarian, and sustainable future. “Human rights guide us in addressing global challenges and empowering individuals and communities. As we reflect on the progress made, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting and promoting these rights,” he said.
Highlighting India’s longstanding advocacy for universal ideals, he said, “India’s civilizational ethos, nurtured over thousands of years, has significantly contributed to upholding the values of the UDHR. These principles ensure dignity and equal opportunities for all citizens, echoing the spirit of the declaration.”
As India celebrates the 75th anniversary of its Constitution, he called upon lawmakers and citizens to uphold the values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. “As representatives of the people, we bear the responsibility to safeguard and strengthen these values. On this momentous occasion, let us pledge to work towards a world where every person can live with dignity, free from oppression, and with equal opportunities to fulfil their potential,” he urged.
