Shillong, Dec 8: Meghalaya Human Rights Commission (MHRC) celebrated 75th year of Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) on the International Human Rights Day 2023, on Friday.
The theme was Freedom, Equality and Justice for all.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and Law Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh were the chief guest and guest of honour respectively. Amongst the dignitaries in the dais included Justice (retired) T.Vaiphei, Chairperson MHRC, the members P.J.P.Hanaman and B.Giri the Additional Chief Secretary, Dr Shakil P. Ahammed IAS and the Secretary MHRC F.M.Dopth.
Among others present were the Director NEPA, IG Prisons, DIG of BSF, Vice Chancellor NLU, police officials from the districts, civil societies, law students and other students from different universities and colleges of Shillong.
In the inaugural session, Conrad and Ampareen recognised the challenges and complexity of human rights, emphasised compassion and respect for differences in the society and community.
They said everyone should live with dignity and respect.
The chief minister said one driving force in his life that motivates him is to make a positive change in a person’s life. “ I think as politicians, officers or as members of the society we are living is to strive to make a positive difference in a person’s life in whatever way we can and I believe that this is related to human rights because everyone is a human being,” he said.
He also said the theme Freedom, Equality and Justice for all is a compelling theme addressing the aspirations of many and also will address the insecurities and conflicts among groups and individuals.
The second session started with opening remarks by Vaiphei who stressed on the importance of upholding and protecting the human rights’ values in all corners of the societies and wanted the public servants to protect the human rights of the citizens and people at large.
The session was also addressed by the prominent speaker from NEHU Dr. Arun Kumar Singh, the associate professor Law Department and Amit Kumar, Advocate General.
