New Delhi: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar addressed concerns regarding external forces aiming to tarnish India's reputation on human rights during the 31st anniversary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Friday. He emphasized the need for vigilance against “pernicious forces” with a “sinister design” to exploit international platforms to question India's human rights practices.

Reflecting on his time as Governor of West Bengal, Dhankhar cited the post-poll violence in the state as a troubling yet isolated incident that should not define India’s overall human rights record. He described the situation in West Bengal as one governed by the "law of the ruler, rather than the rule of law."

Despite acknowledging these challenges, Dhankhar asserted that India has made significant progress in upholding human rights, affirming that the rule of law prevails across the nation. He highlighted the importance of equality and dignity for all, in line with the 2024 World Human Rights Day theme: “Equality, Reducing Inequality, Advancing Human Rights.”

He reiterated the fundamental principle that all individuals are “born free and equal in dignity,” stating that discrimination based on race, religion, or gender undermines the essence of human rights.

Dhankhar concluded by underscoring that protecting human rights is a collective responsibility, urging citizens to recognize that respecting the rights of others equates to respecting one’s own rights, emphasizing that these principles are foundational to India's democracy and Constitution.

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