Himachal: Special lecture organized at Law University on International Human Rights Day
Himachal Pradesh: On the occasion of International Human Rights Day, the Centre for Human Rights and Disability Studies of Himachal Pradesh National Law University (HPNLU), Shimla organised a special lecture on the topic “Our Rights, Our Future, Now in the Context of Vulnerable People”. The event focused on advancing dialogue around human dignity, diversity and justice. Preeti Saxena, Vice Chancellor, HPNLU, while delivering the inaugural address, elaborated on the protective and defensive roles in upholding human rights. She emphasised on the importance of dignity, respect and proactive measures to prevent abuse. Saxena also reflected on the complexities of human identity in a politically constructed world, stressing the need for strong preventive and protective mechanisms to safeguard rights.
The event saw the keynote address delivered by Manoj Kumar Sinha, Vice Chancellor, DNLU, Jabalpur, as the chief guest. Sinha addressed the challenges faced by marginalised communities, stressing that access to basic necessities, including clothing, is a fundamental human right. He had an in-depth discussion on the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), and highlighted the contributions of Eleanor Roosevelt and Hansa Mehta. Sinha analysed the key provisions of the UN Charter of 1945, and linked them with Articles 14, 20 and 21 of the Indian Constitution. Emphasising the primary responsibility of the State in protecting human rights, he called for timely intervention to address systematic violations. Sinha concluded his lecture with a deep reflection on the need for collaborative efforts to uphold human dignity and rights. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by HPNLU Registrar SS Jaswal.