RGNUL Hosts International Conference On Expanding Horizons Of Human Rights In The Age Of Globalisation

The conference examined the evolving scope of human rights within the framework of globalisation, focusing on contemporary challenges such as digital transformation, transnational governance, and the protection of vulnerable and marginalised communities. Deliberations emphasised the need to align international human rights standards with domestic constitutional principles, particularly in the Indian context, while also recognising the role of indigenous legal traditions.

The event was organised by the Centre for Advanced Studies in Human Rights (CASIHR) and the Centre for Advanced Studies in Labour Welfare (CASLW), RGNUL, under the guidance of Dr. Jaswinder Kaur and Dr. Gagan Preet, in collaboration with the Punjabi University. It brought together academicians, legal practitioners, and scholars from across the globe.

The inaugural session was graced by Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice Rajesh Bindal. The Vice-Chancellor of RGNUL, Prof. (Dr.) Jai Shankar Singh, welcomed dignitaries and delegates from over 10 countries.

Justice Sanjay Karol highlighted the growing importance of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the era of globalisation, referring to international instruments such as the UN Charter and key human rights covenants. He emphasised the role of the Constitution of India as a unifying principle and referred to Articles 51A(b) and 51A(h), while also linking these values to India's civilisational traditions. He underscored the role of students in advancing awareness and realisation of human rights.

Justice Rajesh Bindal discussed international human rights frameworks and contemporary concerns including legal aid, sustainability, green credits, and privacy. He emphasised the significance of Part III of the Constitution, particularly Articles 14, 19, and 21, and referred to leading Supreme Court judgments strengthening human rights protections.

Prof. (Dr.) Jai Shankar Singh also addressed the gathering on the protection and promotion of human rights, fundamental freedoms, and fundamental rights. The event was attended by scholars and practitioners including Prof. (Dr.) Bhupinder Singh Virk, Prof. (Dr.) Damanjit Sandhu, Dr. Lakhvir Singh, Dr. Deepak Kumar Srivastava, Dr. Balwinder Kaur, Prof. (Dr.) J. L. Kaul, Prof. (Dr.) Anupam Jha, Advocate Alok Singh and Advocate Sunil Agrawal.

Delegates from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, Lesotho, Mauritius, Nepal, Oman, Syria, and Uganda participated, contributing diverse international perspectives.

The academic programme included 2 offline sessions and 13 online sessions, with 134 participants presenting research papers on contemporary human rights issues. Sessions were evaluated by experts, ensuring rigorous academic engagement.

The conference concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. (Dr.) Kamaljit Kaur, who, along with Dr. Jaswinder Kaur, Dr. Gagan Preet, Dr. Shiva Satish Sharda and Dr. Suzanna Augustine George, expressed gratitude to Prof. (Dr.) Jai Shankar Singh, Vice-Chancellor; Prof. (Dr.) Naresh Kumar Vats; and Dr. Ivneet Kaur Walia for their support. Appreciation was also extended to Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice Rajesh Bindal for their presence and insights. Student coordinators Jashan Deep Kaur and Arun Kumar Rathod were acknowledged for their efforts in organising the event.