Human Rights Day, observed annually on December 10th, reminds us of our inherent dignity and rights. This year, the focus is on India’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which has reached a noteworthy milestone by handling more than 23 lakh complaints since its founding in 1993. This enormous accomplishment highlights the difficulties as well as the successes in defending and advancing human rights in a country as diverse and complicated as India.
With the straightforward but significant goal of protecting the rights of the weak and ensuring justice in cases of human rights abuses, the NHRC was founded as a legislative authority. The NHRC has become a vital organization throughout the years, devoted to tackling everything from gender-based violence, healthcare access, and discrimination to police brutality, bonded labor, and child exploitation.
Behind the staggering number of 23 lakh cases are millions of individual stories — stories of pain, resilience, and, ultimately, hope. Among them is the account of Kamla Devi (name changed), a domestic worker in Uttar Pradesh, who was denied wages and subjected to inhumane treatment. It was the NHRC’s intervention that ensured justice for her and brought national attention to the plight of countless domestic workers facing similar conditions. Such interventions reflect how the commission is not just about numbers but about touching lives and restoring faith in the system.
However, the journey has not been without challenges. The sheer volume of cases highlights the persistent violations and the unmet needs of the marginalized. Critics have often pointed out that while the NHRC has been effective in bringing issues to light, the enforcement of its recommendations is sometimes slow or incomplete. Limited resources, lack of binding authority, and delays in judicial processes are hurdles that continue to impede its functioning.
Despite these limitations, the NHRC has initiated transformative actions. It has conducted public hearings, issued advisories to governments, and worked with civil society organizations to ensure systemic change. In recent years, the NHRC has leveraged technology to streamline complaints and ensure greater transparency in addressing grievances. Its efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic — when human rights were severely tested — were particularly commendable, with interventions focused on the rights of migrant workers, healthcare personnel, and vulnerable populations.
As we commemorate Human Rights Day, it is imperative to reflect on how far we have come and how much further we must go. The NHRC’s milestone is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring belief in justice. But it is also a call to action for every citizen, institution, and government to uphold the values of equality, dignity, and fairness.
Human Rights Day reminds us that the fight for justice is ongoing. The NHRC’s journey is a reflection of this fight — one that requires collective effort, constant vigilance, and an unwavering commitment to humanity. As we look ahead, let us renew our pledge to create a society where every individual’s rights are respected and upheld, ensuring that no voice goes unheard and no injustice remains unchallenged.
This year’s Human Rights Day theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” highlights that human rights are not merely ideals but powerful tools that empower individuals and communities to shape a brighter future. By embracing the transformative power of these rights, we can work towards creating a world that is more peaceful, fair, and sustainable. The message calls for renewed global efforts to build a future firmly grounded in the principles of human dignity and equality.
