Human Rights at the Forefront: Tamil Nadu Battles Rains, Northern India Faces Cold Wave

India's ongoing extreme weather events have raised urgent questions about human rights and disaster management. With Tamil Nadu witnessing severe rains that have shut schools and displaced families, and Northern India bracing for an intense cold wave, the crisis emphasizes the need to safeguard basic human rights such as safety, education, and shelter.

Heavy Rains Close Tamil Nadu Schools

Relentless rainfall across Tamil Nadu has forced school closures in multiple districts, including Chennai, Thanjavur, and Villupuram. District Collectors in Ramanathapuram and Tirunelveli declared holidays to protect children, while higher education institutions like Thiruvalluvar University postponed exams.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued yellow alerts for several regions, predicting heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. These conditions highlight risks like flash floods, disrupted mobility, and compromised access to education, posing significant challenges to the human right to safety and learning opportunities.

Vulnerable Populations Suffer Most

Marginalized communities in Tamil Nadu bear the brunt of the weather crisis. Families in low-lying areas risk displacement due to flooding, often with inadequate access to emergency shelters or resources. Children from underprivileged backgrounds face setbacks in their education, highlighting the need for equitable disaster response mechanisms.

Northern India Braces for Cold Wave

While Tamil Nadu grapples with floods, Northern India is preparing for a cold wave set to begin on December 9. States like Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana are expected to experience a significant drop in temperatures.

For the homeless and economically disadvantaged, this cold wave is more than an inconvenience—it is a matter of survival. Local administrations are distributing warm clothing and establishing shelters, but long-term solutions are necessary to ensure the human right to adequate housing and protection from harsh conditions.

A Rights-Based Approach to Climate Crises

Extreme weather events underscore the intersection of climate change and human rights. Governments must adopt