Human Rights Day Message of NHRC Chairperson, Mr. Justice K.G. Balakrishnan

"Fellow countrymen, greetings to you all on the eve of Human Rights Day which is tomorrow - the 10th December.
By birth, every human being is entitled to basic human rights.
These rights reflect in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights evoked by the United Nations in 1948. The Human Rights Day in celebration of this Declaration reminds us the values of these rights, which are to be respected, protected and promoted. Therefore, it is our responsibility that we work and behave in a manner which do not undermine human rights.
India is world's largest vibrant democracy, but not without its share of challenges which manifest, among others, in terrorism, naxalism, environment degradation, health-hazards, poverty and inequality. Sometimes, these problems may also result in violation of human rights.
Therefore, the scope of human rights and the definition thereof is ever expanding. By and large, these rights manifest in the Right to Life, Liberty, Equality and Dignity. These include, among others, issues in the field of Health, Education, Agriculture, Environment, Law and Order, Labour, Food.
The National Human Rights Commission since its inception in the year 1993 under the Protection of Human Rights Act has been working consistently for the protection and promotion of various human rights. It is helping the governments in good governance in the interest of people.
No rights come without duties. Therefore, it is the duty of all of us to respect the human rights of each other and help create an atmosphere wherein people with their unprejudiced mind express themselves freely and fearlessly, in consonance with the spirit of the Constitution.
On this solemn occasion, I may state that the National Human Rights Commission has taken a number of initiatives in recommending guidelines to the government for framing policies on issues impacting the human rights.
The trust of common man in the Commission is reflected by the magnitude of complaints. At the same time, the rising number of complaints should also be a matter of concern for all in society and the system of governance in the country.
On behalf of the Commission, may I appeal to one and all that
Let us celebrate the spirit of Human Rights on 10th December, 2012
To inculcate humanity.
To make Every Voice count.
To work for a society where there is no discrimination.
Where people live in mutual coexistence,
Without under mining the dignity of each other.
- Jai Hind …."