Human Rights Leadership Conclave 2026 Held in Chandigarh, Experts Stress Collective Responsibility

The Punjab State and Chandigarh (UT) Human Rights Commission successfully organised the “Human Rights Leadership Conclave 2026” at the Municipal Bhawan, Sector 35, Chandigarh. The event witnessed participation from distinguished guests, members of the judiciary, senior officials, scholars, social workers, and core group members from various districts of Punjab and Chandigarh. The programme began with the registration of core group members, followed by an inaugural session that included the national anthem and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. A cultural performance of Bhangra was also presented. The Chairperson and members of the Commission honoured the guests during the समारोह. A key highlight of the conclave was the active involvement of core group members, who play a crucial role in identifying cases of human rights violations, spreading awareness, and facilitating communication between the public and the Commission. During the event, Dr. Deepak Singla was appointed as a member of the Chandigarh Core Committee. The core group members were assigned several responsibilities, including promoting awareness about human rights at the local level, assisting victims in accessing justice through the Commission, reporting cases of human rights violations, and participating in training, research, and awareness programmes conducted by the Commission. Justice Harkesh Manuja, Judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, attended the event as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries present included Raj Lali Gill, Chairperson of the Punjab State Commission for Women; Gurjeet Kaur Ruchi Bawa, Vice Chairperson of the Punjab State Commission for Protection of Child Rights; Gaurav Yadav, IPS, Director General of Police, Punjab; and Dr. Sagar Preet Hooda, IPS, Director General of Police, Chandigarh. In his address, Justice Harkesh Manuja emphasised the vital role of institutions and civil society in safeguarding human rights and ensuring justice for vulnerable sections of society.