The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India is a statutory body established in 1993 to protect and promote human rights in the country. It acts as an independent institution to address human rights violations and ensure justice for victims.

1. Role of NHRC as Protector of Human Rights

The primary role of the NHRC is to safeguard and promote human rights as enshrined in the Constitution of India and international human rights standards. The commission works towards ensuring that citizens’ fundamental rights are respected, especially in cases where governmental bodies or public authorities violate them.

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitoring and Investigating Violations: The NHRC is responsible for monitoring and investigating cases of human rights violations, including those related to unlawful detention, police brutality, or custodial deaths.
• Recommending Redressal: The NHRC recommends actions to government authorities for addressing human rights violations and ensuring justice.
• Raising Awareness: The NHRC undertakes awareness campaigns to educate people about their rights and encourages them to report violations.

2. Functions of NHRC

The NHRC performs several functions aimed at the protection of human rights in India.

1. Inquiring into Complaints

• The NHRC has the authority to inquire into complaints of human rights violations either suo motu (on its own) or through petitions from individuals or organizations.

2. Recommending Actions

• After investigating violations, the NHRC can recommend action, such as compensation, disciplinary action against officials, or legal reforms. For instance, after the 2002 Gujarat riots, the NHRC recommended compensation for victims and improvements in police handling of such cases.

3. Promoting Human Rights Education

• NHRC organizes workshops, seminars, and training programs to promote the understanding of human rights among government officials, police personnel, and the public.

4. Ensuring Accountability

• The NHRC ensures that public authorities are held accountable for human rights violations, prompting reforms and improving governance.

3. Functions Related to Special Areas

• Children and Women: The NHRC works specifically to protect vulnerable groups like women and children from abuse, exploitation, and violence. For example, it has taken steps to ensure the enforcement of laws to prevent child labor and trafficking.
• Rights of Marginalized Communities: The NHRC also focuses on protecting the rights of Dalits, tribals, and religious minorities, ensuring their equal treatment under the law.

Conclusion

The National Human Rights Commission plays a crucial role in defending and promoting human rights in India. Through its investigations, recommendations, and advocacy, it works towards making the government accountable for its actions and ensuring that human rights violations are addressed effectively. By promoting justice, human dignity, and equality, the NHRC helps protect the fundamental rights of every individual in India.