Rapporteur’s Report: 171st Seminar of Global Millets Foundation (GMF) & Sustainable Development Forum (SDF)
Prepared by: Sree Varsha. R
Date: March 31, 2025
Location: Mel Mana Gardens, Ooramana
Theme: Human Rights Challenges in India
Introduction:
The 171st seminar of the Global Millets Foundation (GMF) and Sustainable Development Forum (SDF) convened at Mel Mana Gardens, Ooramana, addressing the critical issue of human rights challenges in India. Presided over by Dr. KPP Nambiar and inaugurated by Mr. Thomas Pulikeel, the seminar provided a vital platform for legal experts, scholars, and human rights activists to engage in a comprehensive dialogue. Hon. Justice JB Koshy’s keynote address powerfully articulated the pressing need for reforms and strengthened protections for human rights within the nation.
Keynote Address by Hon. Justice JB Koshy:
Justice Koshy’s address formed the cornerstone of the seminar, spotlighting the escalating human rights violations in India. He underscored the alarming rise in custodial violence, discrimination, and the suppression of free speech, emphasizing the urgent requirement for a proactive judiciary, transparent law enforcement, and progressive policymaking. Key points included:
● Judicial Accountability: He emphatically urged the judiciary to ensure swift and impartial adjudication to uphold human rights.
● Challenges for Policymakers: He stressed the imperative of balancing national security with civil liberties in policy formulation.
● Police Reforms: He advocated for enhanced training, sensitivity to human rights, and independent oversight of law enforcement agencies.
● Role of Civil Society: He acknowledged the critical role of civil society organizations in advocating for victims and driving legal reforms.
Recommendations for Strengthening Human Rights Protections:
Following Justice Koshy’s address, a series of recommendations were presented to strengthen human rights protections:
● Legislative Overhaul: Updating laws to align with international human rights conventions.
● Judicial Reforms: Strengthening fast-track courts and ensuring judicial independence.
● Law Enforcement Training: Implementing mandatory human rights training for police and judicial officers.
● Institutional Frameworks: Establishing independent monitoring bodies for enhanced accountability.
● Public Awareness Initiatives: Promoting human rights education to foster a culture of respect and compliance.
Panel Discussion and Other Speakers:
The seminar featured an engaging panel discussion involving legal experts and policymakers, further exploring the challenges and potential solutions. Prominent speakers, including Mr. MP Raju, Mrs. Sree Varsha, Dr. BJ Meledom, Rev. Dr. John Ernayakulam, Dr. Abin Abraham, Dr. Mathew Abraham, and Dr. KM George, contributed valuable insights and perspectives.
Professional View:
The 171st GMF & SDF seminar was a timely and crucial event, addressing a matter of significant national importance. Justice JB Koshy’s keynote address was particularly impactful, providing a clear and compelling overview of the human rights challenges facing India. The seminar successfully fostered a productive and focused dialogue among experts and stakeholders, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive reforms.
The recommendations put forth, including legislative overhaul, judicial reforms, and enhanced law enforcement training, are essential steps towards building a more just and equitable society. The emphasis on public awareness and the critical role of civil society underscores the importance of a collective and sustained effort in upholding human rights.
The presence of diverse speakers and the engaging panel discussion enriched the seminar, providing a multifaceted perspective on the complex issues at hand. The seminar’s focus on practical solutions and actionable recommendations demonstrates a strong commitment to driving meaningful and lasting change.
Overall, the 171st GMF & SDF seminar was a successful and impactful event, contributing significantly to the ongoing discourse on human rights in India. The seminar effectively highlighted the need for immediate and sustained action to protect and promote human rights for all citizens.
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