National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India

GS Paper II – Governance

Introduction

• The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is a statutory body established to protect and promote human rights in India.
• It was set up on October 12, 1993, under the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA), 1993.

Composition of NHRC

The NHRC consists of:

1. Chairperson – A former Chief Justice of India.
2. Members:
   • One former Supreme Court Judge.
   • One former Chief Justice of a High Court.
   • Three members with expertise in human rights.
3. Ex-officio Members:
   • Chairpersons of National Commissions (SC, ST, Minorities, Women, Backward Classes, and Rights of Child & Disability).

Appointment & Tenure

• Appointed by: The President of India on the recommendation of a high-level committee consisting of:
  • Prime Minister (Chairperson)
  • Speaker of Lok Sabha
  • Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha
  • Leaders of Opposition in Lok Sabha & Rajya Sabha
  • Union Home Minister
• Tenure: 3 years or until the age of 70 years, whichever is earlier.

Powers & Functions of NHRC

• Inquiry & Investigation:
  • Investigates human rights violations either on its own or through petitions.
  • Can summon and examine witnesses, just like a civil court.
• Monitoring & Reporting:
  • Reviews laws, policies, and international treaties concerning human rights.
  • Reports violations and recommends corrective measures to the government.
• Awareness & Research:
  • Conducts research, organizes workshops, and promotes human rights education.
• Intervention & Recommendations:
  • Recommends compensation or legal action against offenders.
  • Advises the government on policies for better human rights protection.