Commemoration of International Human Rights Day by Citizen’s Human Rights Clinic at Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, Odisha – On December 10th, the Citizen’s Human Rights Clinic (CHRC) in collaboration with Sabitri Devi Charitable Trust Bhubaneswar and Jehovah Group celebrated International Human Rights Day at the Bulan Bhai Seva Kendra in Bhubaneswar. The event was attended by a diverse gathering of human rights defenders, social activists, and intellectuals.
Distinguished Guests
The occasion was graced by several esteemed guests. Renowned spiritual leader and Vedic philosopher Swami Ananda Saraswati, founder of Viswamitra Gurukulam Rishikesh and Uttarakashi, served as the Chief Guest. Dr. Pabitra Mohan Samantaray, a media baron, social reformer, teacher of transcendental meditation and yoga, delivered the keynote address. Ananya Ashmita, a faculty member of the Political Science Department at Cuttack City College, was the Special Guest.
Key Addresses Swami Ananda Saraswati emphasized that when law-abiding citizens perform their constitutional duties, there will be no violation of human rights. He stressed the importance of education in eliminating ignorance and urged human rights defenders to educate the masses on human rights issues to prevent illegal or immoral actions.
Dr. Pabitra Mohan Samantaray highlighted that human rights, rule of law, and democratic governance are not just abstract values but powerful enablers for key missions of every government. He shared field experiences where journalists were brutally treated for highlighting genuine social issues and underscored the need to support those denied their rights. He advocated for small actions like treating others with kindness and standing against injustice to make a difference.
Ananya Ashmita emphasized the importance and relevance of human rights, calling for a change in perceptions by countering negative stereotypes and misconceptions. She urged mobilization to reinvigorate a global movement for human rights.
Presidential Address
Gopabandhu Mallick, former Additional Director General of Police and Chairman of CHRC, delivered the presidential address. He stated that human rights are the common thread that binds us all together to foster peace and stability.
Other Dignitaries
Other notable speakers included Nrusingha Nath Nanda, Prof. Jayakrishna Mohanta, Dr. Paresh Chandra Mohanty, Advocate Pratap Keshari Das, and writer Rashmi Roul. Many dignitaries such as Prof. Niranjan Barik, Biswakeshan Behera, Ramnarayan Patra, Prafulla Kumar Sethi, Paresh Nath Patra, Banashree Mohapatra, Bhabani Mallick, Madhusmita Choudhury, Dr. Kamalini Panigrahi, and Mr Bhaskar Sethi also shared their experiences related to human rights issues.
Awards and Recognition The event concluded with CHRC honoring and conferring awards on several individuals for their achievements in various fields. The awardees included eminent journalist Sriram Dash; former member of the Press Council of India Sarat Chandra Behera; Nutritionist Sulagna Sucharita; C. Garima Sharma; Banani Swain; Nrusingha Nath Nanda; Ashutosh Chakra; Piyush Kumar Dalie; and Sanukta Mahal.