Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 10, 2024, Kolkata : On the occasion of International Human Rights Day, Dr. Barun Kumar Das, a distinguished human rights law expert from West Bengal, was presented with the prestigious ‘Global Human Rights Protection Award’ by the Indian Institute of Human Rights in New Delhi. The award, conferred during the 24th World Human Rights Congress at the India International Center, recognizes his significant contributions to the field of human rights education, legal advocacy, and protection of marginalized communities.
The commemoration of International Human Rights Day on December 10 each year traces its origins back to 1948, when the United Nations, under the leadership of former U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, established the day in response to the widespread suffering caused by World War II. In the spirit of this occasion, the Indian Institute of Human Rights honors individuals who have made exemplary efforts in safeguarding human rights across the globe. Dr. Das’s relentless work in advocating for human rights, offering legal counsel in various courts, and his pivotal role in filing cases to protect livelihoods, has earned him this esteemed recognition.
Currently a Senior Guest Professor at the University of Calcutta’s Law Department and a prominent lawyer at the Calcutta High Court, Dr. Das has also contributed significantly to academic discourse. His book, Human Rights Law and Domestic Violence, published by the Central Law Agency in Allahabad, is widely used in universities across India, where human rights law is taught.
Expressing his gratitude for the recognition, Dr. Das noted, “This award is not just an honor but a reflection of the collective effort of all those working alongside me in the struggle to protect human rights. It motivates me to continue advocating for justice and ensuring the protection of rights for all.” He added that the honor would encourage him to extend his efforts further in safeguarding the rights of vulnerable individuals.
The Indian Institute of Human Rights has previously recognized several prominent figures for their work in the human rights arena, including former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Dr. Das, acknowledging the significance of this legacy, said the recognition would fuel his determination to continue his advocacy for human rights.