Human Rights Should Be Everyday Essentials for All, Especially Marginalised, Says RS Chairman

New Delhi, Dec 10: Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan on Wednesday urged elected representatives to ensure that human rights are not treated as abstract ideals but as “living, breathing realities” for every citizen, with special attention to marginalised sections of society.

Addressing members on the 77th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Radhakrishnan said the landmark 1948 declaration continues to serve as the foundation of human dignity, freedom, equality and justice across the world.

Referring to this year’s global theme, ‘Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials’, he said it highlights three core principles that human rights are positive in nature, essential to daily life and achievable in practice.

“Human rights empower individuals and communities, prevent harm, protect dignity and help transform societies for the better,” he said.

Linking global human rights values with India’s own traditions, the Chairman said the country has long championed these ideals through both its ancient philosophy and constitutional framework. He cited the concept of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ the world is one family — and noted that the Constitution guarantees Fundamental Rights along with Directive Principles of State Policy.

“As elected representatives of the people, it is our bounden duty to ensure that human rights remain a lived reality for every citizen,” Radhakrishnan said, calling on members to renew their commitment to building a society where human rights are truly part of everyday life.

Meanwhile, after the laying of papers in the Upper House, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju informed members that the discussion marking the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram would continue in the second half of the day and may extend till 7 pm. He added that the debate on election reforms would be taken up on Thursday and is expected to conclude on Monday.