Human rights remain a work in progress, need constant vigilance, says ex-Kerala HC Chief Justice Bannurmath

Bengaluru: "The protection of human rights remains a work in progress worldwide despite decades of constitutional and institutional frameworks," former Kerala High Court Chief Justice SR Bannurmath said on Saturday, urging citizens to actively claim and defend their rights in everyday life.

Justice Bannurmath delivered the keynote address at a seminar on ‘Human Rights and Everyday Life’, jointly organised by the Karnataka Section of the International Commission of Jurists (KSICJ) and the Karnataka Jurists Trust (KJT). The panel discussion featured activist Ruth Manorama, National Law School of India University (NLSIU) professor Arun Thiruvengadam and senior advocate Aditya Sondhi.

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Addressing law students and members of the legal fraternity, Justice Bannurmath highlighted how India’s Constitution , particularly Article 21 on the right to life and personal liberty, has been interpreted expansively by courts to include rights to privacy, education, a clean environment and dignity even in death. “Human rights are inherent, inalienable and universal. They arise from our humanity,” he said, cautioning that emerging technologies, environmental degradation and persistent social inequalities pose fresh challenges.

Justice Bannurmath also stressed the role of National and State Human Rights Commissions as accessible, cost-free forums for ordinary citizens. “Many suffer in silence due to unawareness. Legal rights are meaningful only when people know about them,” he said, while acknowledging criticism that commissions are “toothless tigers” unless their recommendations are enforced through judicial intervention.

During the interactive session, participants raised concerns over delays in appointing full-time chairs to State Human Rights Commissions, including in Karnataka , and called for stronger follow-up mechanisms to ensure accountability. Justice Bannurmath urged the audience to file complaints, pursue them diligently and said "remember that rights come with responsibilities."