Tag: NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION (NHRC)

Justice V. Ramasubramanian, former Supreme Court judge, has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) by President. About the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Establishment: Founded on 12 October 1993 under the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA), 1993. Formed in line with the Paris Principles, 1991, endorsed by the UN General Assembly in 1993. It is a statutory body created by the PHRA Act, 1993. Objective: To safeguard and promote human rights as defined under Section 2(1)(d) of the PHRA, encompassing the rights to life, liberty, equality, and dignity guaranteed by the Constitution. Composition: Chairperson: A former Chief Justice of India or a Supreme Court judge. Members: One former or sitting Supreme Court judge. One former or sitting Chief Justice of a High Court. Three individuals with expertise in human rights, including at least one woman. Ex-Officio Members: Chairpersons of various National Commissions (e.g., for SC/ST, Women, Minorities) and the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities. Functions and Powers: Investigate Human Rights Violations: Including those committed by public servants or due to negligence. Make Recommendations: On the protection and effective enforcement of human rights. Review Laws: Evaluate treaties and international instruments related to human rights. Promote Research and Awareness: Encourage studies, publications, and education on human rights. Inspect Institutions: Visit jails and other detention facilities to assess living conditions. Shortcomings in NHRC Functioning: Non-Binding Recommendations: NHRC's recommendations lack legal enforceability. No Punitive Powers: Cannot punish violators or provide direct relief to victims. Limited Armed Forces Jurisdiction: Restricted role in cases involving military personnel. Time Restrictions: Cannot address violations reported after one year. Resource Constraints: Overburdened with limited resources and understaffed state commissions. Dependence on Government: Lack of independence due to government-appointed members. Reactive Approach: Focuses on complaints rather than preventive measures. Steps to Strengthen NHRC: Expand Mandate: Address emerging issues like AI, deepfakes, and climate change. Grant Enforcement Powers: Enable punitive action to ensure accountability. Composition Reforms: Include members from civil society and diverse backgrounds. Independent Cadre: Build a skilled and independent workforce. Strengthen State Commissions: Provide resources and facilitate collaboration. Proactive Advocacy: Conduct awareness campaigns and educational initiatives. Global Cooperation: Learn from international best practices.

Tag: NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION (NHRC)

NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION (NHRC)

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