NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India is an autonomous public body established on October 12, 1993, under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. It serves as an independent watchdog for human rights protection and promotion in India, ensuring that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect, and their fundamental rights are upheld. The NHRC was established in response to the growing need for an institution dedicated to the protection of human rights in the country. Its primary purpose is to investigate and address issues related to human rights violations, including the right to life, liberty, equality, and dignity of individuals as guaranteed by the Indian Constitution and international covenants to which India is a party.
The composition of the NHRC ensures a blend of judicial experience, human rights expertise, and representation from various national commissions, which strengthens its capacity to address complex human rights issues effectively.
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Role/Position |
Details |
Appointment Process |
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Chairperson |
The Chairperson is a retired Chief Justice of India (CJI) or a judge of the Supreme Court. |
Appointed by the President of India based on recommendations from a high-level committee comprising: The Prime Minister (Chairperson of the committee) The Home Minister The Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha The Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha The Speaker of Lok Sabha |
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Members |
The NHRC includes four full-time members: A former Judge of the Supreme Court A former Chief Justice of a High Court Two individuals with knowledge or practical experience in matters related to human rights. |
Appointed by the President of India following recommendations from the same committee that selects the Chairperson. |
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Ex-officio Members |
The Chairpersons of several national commissions serve as ex-officio members, including: National Commission for Scheduled Castes National Commission for Scheduled Tribes National Commission for Women National Commission for Minorities National Commission for Backward Classes |
Ex-officio members are automatically included based on their roles as Chairpersons of the respective national commissions. |
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Secretary-General |
The Secretary-General acts as the Chief Executive Officer of the NHRC. |
Appointed by the Central Government, responsible for the administration, management, and daily operations of the NHRC. |
The diverse composition of the NHRC, which includes judicial authorities, human rights experts, and representatives from various commissions, ensures that the Commission benefits from a wide range of perspectives and expertise. This composition is crucial for the NHRC to effectively tackle the human rights challenges faced by India's diverse population.
The tenure of the Chairperson and members of the NHRC is defined to ensure stability and continuity in the Commission's functioning while maintaining a check on prolonged incumbency to avoid complacency or undue influence.