K.R.Narayanan Chair

K.R Narayanan Chair for Human Rights and Social Justice                                  

The Chair, established in 2013, aims to explore the inspiring life of K.R. Narayanan, the former president of India, from 25.07.1997 to 25.07.2002. As a renowned academic, teacher, diplomat, and statesman, his work and orations had a profound impact on India’s political landscape and garnered international recognition. Narayanan was a steadfast advocate for the secular values of equality, liberty, and fraternity enshrined in the Indian Constitution, and he vocalised his opposition to the injustices faced by socially disadvantaged groups. Furthermore, he envisioned a vibrant Indian democracy, emphasising the eradication of caste-based discrimination and the democratisation of Indian society. 

The Chair aims to establish a well-equipped centre of learning for intellectuals, academics, and students to undertake studies and research on the life, work, and thoughts of K.R. Narayanan. A significant component of this research programme focuses on his contributions to international relations between India and other countries.The collection and compilation of materials related to these aspects, and the building of a library to make his ideas and writings accessible, are major objectives of the Chair. It also undertakes research and advanced studies on the socioeconomic and cultural life of marginalised groups, particularly in Kerala.

The Chair’s objectives include establishing a research centre dedicated to understanding social discrimination and exclusion, with a special emphasis on tackling the pressing developmental issues affecting marginalised communities, especially Dalits residing in colonies. Additionally, the Chair  undertakes a comprehensive survey to create a Dalit Human Development Index for Kerala, gathering insights from individuals within and outside Dalit colonies.