The Universal Declaration of Human Rights enables each one of us to exercise and be entitled to our fundamental human rights!
In 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was officially adopted on December 10th. Since then, we've continued to commemorate this day annually, serving as a poignant reminder that human rights must never be assumed and that their protection necessitates ongoing dedication. Across the globe, numerous individuals are tirelessly committed to the cause of safeguarding, upholding, and defending human rights. In our own country, there have been and continue to be fearless champions who have taken significant strides to reform our society, leaving a profound impact not only on our nation but also on the world.
Today, on Human Rights Day, we shed light on the remarkable achievements and courageous actions of some of these extraordinary individuals.
Raja Ram Mohan Roy was a prominent figure in 18th-century India; widely recognized as the 'Father of Modern India' and the key influencer behind the 'Bengal Renaissance.' He holds the distinction of founding one of the earliest socio-religious reform movements in India, the Brahmo Samaj. Roy's ideas and actions had a profound impact on Indian society, particularly in the realm of social reform and the promotion of human rights.
One of his most significant contributions was advocating for women's rights, including their right to remarriage and property ownership. His tireless efforts played a pivotal role in the eventual abolition of the practice of Sati in 1829, under the governance of Lord William Bentinck, the then Governor-General of India. He vehemently opposed Sati, viewing it as a cruel violation of humanity and an indicator of moral degradation within society. Additionally, he fought against the harmful practices of child marriage and the lack of education among women. Roy's dedication to protecting human rights and enlightening the path to a better future was undeniably extraordinary.
Medha Patkar, along with her colleagues, spearheaded the Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA), which has had a lasting impact on environmental and social justice in India. Her relentless activism has been primarily focused on advocating for those affected by large-scale development projects, especially in the Narmada Valley.
Over decades, Medha Patkar and the NBA have tirelessly worked to prevent the destruction of local ecosystems and the displacement of approximately one million people. They shifted the political discourse towards promoting alternatives that benefit the disadvantaged and the environment.
Amid the Narmada struggle, Medha Patkar faced severe repression but remained dedicated to protecting human rights. She conducted multiple Satyagrahas and endured an intense 21-day fast in 1991, coming close to death. Throughout, she advocated for the rights of those affected by the Narmada Valley dams project, earning her a place on Time magazine's list of "100 Heroes of the 20th Century" in 2000. Her unshakable commitment exemplifies the strength of relentless activism in defending justice and human rights.
Aruna Roy stands out as one of India's most prominent activists, with a remarkable journey. She began her career as a civil servant in 1968, serving until 1975. In that period, she made a pivotal decision to resign from the Indian Administrative Service to dedicate her efforts to uplifting rural communities in Rajasthan. Teaming up with Nikhil Dey, Shankar Singh, and local community members in the Devdungri district, she co-founded the MKSS (Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan), an organization aimed at empowering workers and peasants, in 1990. Their grassroots campaign through MKSS played a vital role in pushing nine Indian states to adopt right-to-information laws in the early 2000s. Subsequently, the Indian parliament passed a national right-to-information law in 2005.
Aruna Roy's influence surely extends beyond this achievement. She actively participates in various democratic struggles and campaigns across the country, consistently voicing her strong support for human rights. She is a source of inspiration for many, and her absolute dedication serves as a compelling example of how human rights should be viewed as a shared asset for the progress of society.
These individuals have illuminated the path that can guide us toward a brighter future where every human being is equally entitled to pursue a life filled with rights and equality!
