CHRC Organises 14th National Human Rights Conference at Bhadrak with Pomp and Grandeur
Bhadrak, August 26, 2025:
The Citizens’ Human Rights Clinic (CHRC), Odisha, successfully organised its 14th National Human Rights Conference at Rotary Bhawan, Bhadrak, on August 24–25, 2025. The two-day historic event, held with much pomp and grandeur, was spearheaded by Bijay Kumar Nayak (President, CHRC Bhadrak) and Badal Kishore Mohapatra (Secretary, CHRC Bhadrak).
Eminent personalities including novelist Rashmi Roul, Basanta Kumar Dash, and Sk. Nasir Bux of Bhadrak played a vital role in ensuring the success of the conference.
The gathering was graced by several distinguished dignitaries: Hrushikesh Tripathy, IAS (Retd.), former Secretary, Govt. of Odisha; Dilip Kumar Routray, IAS, Collector & District Magistrate, Bhadrak; Kabindra Nath Khatei, IAS (Retd.); Janaki Ballav Mishra, IAS (Retd.); Prof. Niranjan Barik, Advisor of CHRC; Prof. Jayakrishna Mohanta, Secretary General of CHRC; Dr. Gopabandhu Mallick, National Chairman of CHRC; Pramod Kumar Pattayat, first CEO of the Odisha Human Rights Commission; Swarup Kumar Basa, President of CHRC Baripada Town Branch; Advocate Pratap Keshari Das (Legal Advisor, CHRC); and Biswakeshan Behera (Youth Wing Secretary, CHRC).
Inaugural Speech & Keynote Address
Delivering the inaugural speech, Hrushikesh Tripathy traced the evolution of human rights from early philosophical, religious, and political ideas in ancient civilizations to modern declarations. He highlighted milestones such as the Cyrus Cylinder (539 BC), Magna Carta (1215), the Glorious Revolution (1688), the American War of Independence (1776), the French Revolution (1789), the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), and the International Covenants of 1966 on Civil, Political, Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights. Tripathy urged the audience to stand with victims of human rights abuses and help assuage their suffering.
In his keynote address as Chief Guest, Collector & District Magistrate Dilip Kumar Routray delivered an inspirational speech. He emphasized that government officials are constitutionally obligated to uphold the rule of law by ensuring transparency, accountability, and fairness in decision-making. He further said that if administrators and government officials treat the victims of human rights abuses with sympathy and empathy, it would provide them solace. Since empathy shows the victims that their suffering is understood, he urged officials to hear victims patiently and redress their grievances with sensitivity.
Motivating Voices & Honouring Eminent Personalities
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Niranjan Barik and other speakers motivated participants to dedicate themselves to the promotion and protection of human rights. Their words deeply resonated with the audience, inspiring many to commit to this noble cause.
As part of the proceedings, CHRC also honoured four eminent personalities for their outstanding contributions in their respective fields: Dr. Harekrushna Nayak (social service), Shantanu Kumar Rout (educationist), Narendra Kumar Samal (journalist), and Banashri Mohapatra (social activist).
Theme Resonates: We Stand Up for Human Rights
The conference, themed “We Stand Up for Human Rights”, echoed throughout the sessions. Intellectuals, activists, and citizens alike were urged to uphold and defend the rights of those who face injustice and exploitation.
From many angles, the 14th National Human Rights Conference at Bhadrak has created a deep and lasting impact on society, strengthening the human rights movement in Odisha and beyond.