Chapter 56 The National Human Rights Commission Nhrc In India Establishment Role And Objectives

The Establishment, Role, and Objectives of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in India

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is a vital institution dedicated to safeguarding and promoting human rights in India. It was established in 1993 through a legislative act called the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, which marked a significant milestone in India's efforts to institutionalize human rights protection. Unlike constitutional bodies that derive their authority directly from the Constitution, the NHRC is a statutory body, meaning it was created by law passed by Parliament to perform specific functions related to human rights.

The Protection of Human Rights Act, enacted by the Indian Parliament, provides the legal framework for the functioning of the NHRC. This legislation not only established the commission but also delineated its powers, functions, and jurisdiction, ensuring that it operates within a clear legal structure. The enactment of this law was a deliberate move to formalize mechanisms for monitoring and addressing human rights issues across the country, reflecting India’s commitment to uphold international standards and obligations concerning human rights.

The NHRC's establishment was a crucial step in strengthening India's institutional capacity to protect fundamental rights. Its creation signified a recognition of the importance of having an independent body capable of scrutinizing government actions and safeguarding individuals' rights. The NHRC acts as a watchdog—a term that highlights its role in monitoring adherence to human rights standards by government agencies, institutions, and other entities. As an independent body, it is designed to operate without undue influence from political or administrative authorities, ensuring impartiality and credibility in its investigations and recommendations.

The role of the NHRC extends beyond mere monitoring; it encompasses actively investigating violations of human rights. The commission is tasked with examining allegations of rights infringements, whether they stem from state action or inaction. Its functions are rooted in the principles laid out in the Indian Constitution, which guarantees fundamental rights related to life, liberty, equality, and dignity. These rights are also embodied in various international covenants and treaties—such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights—that India has ratified and committed to uphold. This dual foundation of constitutional and international commitments enhances the NHRC’s authority and underscores its importance in the broader human rights framework.

The NHRC’s role as a watchdog involves a proactive approach to human rights violations. It monitors, investigates, and takes suo-motu cognizance of issues, ensuring that violations are addressed effectively. This function is crucial in a democratic setup, as it helps hold government agencies accountable and provides a mechanism for victims or concerned individuals to seek redress. By doing so, the NHRC consolidates efforts to uphold human rights standards domestically, aligning national laws with international commitments.

The objectives of the NHRC are specifically aimed at creating a more effective and credible human rights protection mechanism. Firstly, it seeks to strengthen institutional arrangements—structures and procedures within the government and society—that can address human rights issues comprehensively. This involves establishing dedicated mechanisms capable of responding to violations promptly and effectively. Secondly, the commission aims to investigate allegations of excesses or rights violations independently of the government. This independence is vital for impartiality and for reinforcing public confidence in the system, as it underscores the commitment to protecting rights without political interference.

Furthermore, the NHRC endeavors to support and reinforce existing human rights efforts. It complements other institutions and mechanisms working in this domain, such as state human rights commissions, NGOs, and international organizations. Its investigations and reports often serve as critical inputs for policy reforms, legal amendments, and awareness campaigns, thereby strengthening the overall human rights environment in India.

In terms of process, the NHRC undertakes investigations into allegations of rights violations, often conducting inquiries independently to ensure neutrality. Its powers include summoning witnesses, requiring documents, and providing recommendations for redress. While it does not have the authority to enforce its decisions directly, its reports and recommendations carry significant weight and often lead to governmental action or judicial follow-up.

The creation of the NHRC reflects broader trends in India’s post-independence history towards formalizing human rights protection mechanisms. It aligns with the country’s international commitments and emphasizes the state's responsibility to safeguard individual rights. As a statutory body, the NHRC operates within a well-defined legal framework that ensures its independence but also places it within the rule of law. Unlike constitutional bodies such as the Supreme Court or Election Commission, which derive authority directly from the Constitution, the NHRC’s statutory nature means it functions based on legislation passed by Parliament.

In conclusion, the NHRC stands as a significant institutional pillar in India’s human rights landscape. Its establishment in 1993 represented a conscious effort by the state to create a dedicated, independent body capable of monitoring, investigating, and promoting human rights. Guided by its objectives to strengthen institutional mechanisms, operate independently, and support ongoing human rights initiatives, the NHRC plays a critical role in ensuring that India’s commitments to fundamental rights are upheld, both domestically and in accordance with international standards. Its existence and functioning underscore India’s recognition of human rights as essential to its democratic fabric and its ongoing responsibility to protect every individual’s dignity, liberty, and equality.

NHRC Composition and Appointments

Composition and Appointment of the National Human Rights Commission in India

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is a crucial autonomous statutory body established by the Government of India to protect, promote, and uphold human rights across the country. Its primary role is to ensure accountability of both state and non-state actors concerning violations of human rights, thereby reinforcing the fundamental rights enshrined in the Indian Constitution. To effectively carry out these responsibilities, the NHRC's composition and appointment process are meticulously designed to promote independence, impartiality, and broad-based expertise.

The NHRC is structured as a multi-member body comprising a Chairperson and a specified number of Members. Currently, the commission includes one Chairperson and five Members, along with seven ex-officio members drawn from other prominent national commissions. The composition requirements emphasize diversity and expertise; the Chairperson must be a retired Chief Justice of India or a former judge of the Supreme Court, ensuring that the head of the commission has substantial judicial experience and integrity. The other Members include serving or retired judges from the Supreme Court, high court chief justices, and distinguished experts in human rights issues. This diversity ensures that the commission benefits from a wide range of perspectives and specialized knowledge, enhancing its ability to address complex human rights violations effectively.

In addition to the appointed Members, the NHRC includes ex-officio members who hold positions by virtue of their office in other prominent national commissions. These include representatives from commissions dedicated to minorities, women, Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and other specific interest groups. The inclusion of these ex-officio members broadens the commission’s oversight capabilities and ensures that the concerns of various marginalized and vulnerable communities are integrated into its functioning.

The appointment process for the Chairperson and Members is a well-defined procedure aimed at safeguarding the independence and impartiality of the NHRC. The President of India appoints these officials based on recommendations made by a six-member committee. This committee is headed by the Prime Minister and includes the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the leaders of the opposition in both houses, and the Union Home Minister. Such a broad and inclusive committee structure is designed to foster consensus and transparency in appointments, minimizing political influence.

A critical aspect of this process is the consultation with the Chief Justice of India, which is required when appointing judicial members. This ensures that those with judicial expertise and integrity are selected, aligning the commission’s composition with its constitutional mandate. The process underscores the importance placed on selecting individuals with a reputation for fairness, independence, and commitment to human rights.

The tenure of the Chairperson and Members is typically three years or until they reach the age of 70, whichever occurs first. This fixed term aims to balance stability with renewal, allowing fresh perspectives while maintaining continuity. Provisions are also in place for the removal of members under specific grounds, such as misconduct or incapacity, to uphold the integrity of the commission.

Salaries and other emoluments of the Chairperson and Members are determined by the government, providing a framework that supports their independence while ensuring administrative accountability. These provisions collectively aim to insulate the NHRC from undue influence, whether political or bureaucratic, thereby preserving its credibility as an independent watchdog.

The entire structure and appointment process of the NHRC reflect India’s constitutional and legislative commitment to maintaining an impartial and effective human rights body. By establishing a body with qualified, diverse, and independent members, India underscores its dedication to safeguarding human rights, addressing violations proactively, and fostering a culture of accountability. The inclusion of ex-officio members from other commissions and adherence to transparent appointment procedures exemplify the nation’s effort to ensure that the NHRC remains a credible, authoritative, and effective institution in the long term, capable of responding to the evolving landscape of human rights challenges in India.

NHRC's Role in Protecting Human Rights

Functions of the National Human Rights Commission

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India serves as a crucial institutional mechanism dedicated to the protection and promotion of human rights across the country. Its functions are broad and multifaceted, designed to address violations, ensure accountability, and foster awareness among the populace. Central to its mandate is the authority to investigate violations of human rights, which it can do either suo motu—meaning on its own initiative—or based on petitions presented by individuals or organizations. This ability to act independently without waiting for external requests underscores the commission’s proactive role in safeguarding fundamental rights.

Moreover, the NHRC has the authority to intervene in ongoing legal proceedings involving allegations of human rights violations. This legal intervention allows the commission to ensure that justice is not delayed and that violations are addressed within the judicial framework, thereby strengthening accountability of public servants and institutions. The commission’s powers extend further to visiting detention facilities such as jails and prisons. These visits enable the NHRC to assess the living conditions of inmates, identify any violations of their rights, and recommend necessary reforms to improve their treatment and environment.

A significant part of the NHRC’s functions involves reviewing legal safeguards designed to protect human rights. These safeguards include constitutional provisions, statutory laws, and administrative policies that aim to prevent abuses and ensure justice. The commission evaluates the effectiveness of these protections, recommends necessary amendments, and advocates for their rigorous implementation. In addition, the NHRC examines international treaties and instruments related to human rights, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and various other conventions. By studying these treaties, the commission promotes their effective implementation within India, aligning national standards with international human rights norms.

Research and awareness form another pillar of the NHRC’s activities. The commission undertakes and promotes research to deepen understanding of human rights issues, identify emerging challenges, and develop effective solutions. It also seeks to spread human rights literacy among the citizens, ensuring that people are aware of their rights and the legal safeguards available to them. This educational aspect is vital in empowering individuals and fostering a culture of respect for human dignity.

Supporting non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working in the field of human rights is also an integral part of the NHRC’s mandate. By encouraging NGO efforts, the commission helps create a collaborative environment where civil society can actively participate in human rights advocacy. Beyond these core functions, the NHRC is empowered to undertake other activities necessary for promoting human rights, underscoring its adaptive and comprehensive approach.

The scope of these functions is exemplified through various events and processes. For instance, the investigation of violations can be initiated suo motu or based on petitions, allowing the commission to respond to incidents of human rights abuses swiftly and independently. Visits to detention centers serve as a practical measure to ensure inmates’ rights are protected and conditions are humane. The review of legal safeguards and treaties ensures that India’s commitments to human rights are not only theoretical but translated into effective policies and practices.

Several key entities underpin these activities. The NHRC itself, as an autonomous body established by law, is empowered to carry out investigations and promote awareness independently. Legal safeguards—constitutional and statutory provisions—are constantly reviewed to ensure their robustness and effectiveness. International treaties and instruments, such as conventions on torture, political rights, and civil liberties, are studied to align national standards with global norms.

This comprehensive framework of functions is rooted in India’s constitutional commitments and international obligations. The Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights and enjoins the state to protect them, while international treaties further reinforce these commitments. The NHRC’s activities contribute significantly to the development of legal and social safeguards, ensuring accountability of public officials and fostering a culture of respect for human rights among citizens. Its efforts are particularly vital in a democratic society where issues such as terrorism, detention conditions, and legal protections are sensitive and complex.

Overall, the NHRC plays an indispensable role in upholding human rights in India. By investigating violations, intervening in legal proceedings, inspecting detention facilities, reviewing safeguards, and promoting awareness and research, the commission works towards creating a society where human dignity is respected and protected. Its functions reflect the nation’s ongoing commitment to uphold the rule of law, prevent abuse of power, and ensure that every individual’s rights are recognized and upheld within the framework of India’s democratic and constitutional values.

NHRC Operations and Powers

Working of the National Human Rights Commission in India

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) functions as a pivotal institution dedicated to protecting and promoting human rights across the country. Its headquarters is situated in Delhi, serving as the central hub for its operations, but it possesses the authority and capacity to establish regional offices in various parts of India. This decentralization allows the NHRC to extend its reach, facilitate localized investigations, and better address region-specific human rights concerns.

One of the defining features of the NHRC is its judicial powers, which are akin to those of a civil court. This grants it the authority to regulate its own procedures, ensuring that its investigations and inquiries are conducted efficiently and fairly. The commission’s proceedings are characterized by a judicial nature, enabling it to summon witnesses, call for evidence, and examine individuals as part of its investigative process. These powers help the NHRC function effectively as an independent body capable of holding authorities accountable.

The NHRC maintains a robust system for gathering information and evidence essential for its investigations. It can directly summon reports or information from both the central government and state governments, as well as any other subordinate authorities. This capacity ensures that it receives timely and comprehensive data necessary to assess human rights violations. To carry out its investigations thoroughly, the commission has its own dedicated staff primarily responsible for investigating complaints of human rights violations. Additionally, it is empowered to utilize the services of officers or investigative agencies from the central or state governments, thereby leveraging existing institutional resources to support its inquiries.

Beyond its internal resources, the NHRC has actively established collaborations with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). These partnerships are vital because NGOs often have firsthand information about ongoing or past human rights violations, especially in remote or marginalized communities. Their involvement enhances the NHRC’s ability to gather credible evidence and advocate for victims effectively.

However, the commission operates within specific procedural limits. Notably, it is not empowered to inquire into any matter after the expiry of one year from the date on which the alleged violation occurred. This inquiry time limit underscores the importance of prompt action and ensures that investigations are conducted while evidence remains fresh and reliable. The one-year window emphasizes that the NHRC prioritizes timely intervention, which is crucial for justice and accountability.

During or upon the completion of an inquiry, the NHRC can recommend various remedial actions to ensure justice and uphold human rights. These include suggesting that the concerned government or authority pay compensation or damages to the victims, thereby providing immediate relief. It can also recommend the initiation of prosecution or other legal proceedings against public servants or officials found guilty of human rights violations, acting as an advisory body that influences legal and administrative actions. Furthermore, the commission can recommend the grant of interim relief to victims during ongoing investigations, providing necessary support to those affected. In cases where administrative remedies are insufficient or delayed, the NHRC has the authority to approach higher courts—specifically the Supreme Court or the respective High Courts—for necessary directions, orders, or writs to enforce justice.

The legal foundation of the NHRC is rooted in the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, which established it as an autonomous statutory body. Its primary functions include investigating violations of human rights, recommending appropriate actions, and actively working to safeguard fundamental rights across India. The commission’s role is vital in strengthening the mechanisms of accountability, transparency, and justice concerning human rights issues.

The NHRC interacts closely with various entities. The government of India and individual state governments are among its key counterparts, as they are required to cooperate with the commission, providing information, implementing recommendations, and facilitating investigations. The judiciary, represented by the Supreme Court and High Courts, also plays a crucial role. The NHRC can approach these courts for directions or enforcement orders during or after its inquiries, ensuring that its findings and recommendations lead to tangible legal outcomes.

The establishment and functioning of the NHRC serve a broader purpose within Indian polity: to reinforce the protection of human rights as an independent and effective process. Its powers to recommend enforcement actions, coupled with its ability to collaborate with NGOs and approach courts, enhance government accountability and facilitate justice for victims. The one-year inquiry limit reflects a commitment to prompt action, recognizing that delays can undermine the credibility and effectiveness of human rights protections.

In summary, the NHRC operates as a specialized judicial and investigative body with a broad mandate to uphold human rights in India. Its powers, procedures, and collaborations exemplify a comprehensive approach to addressing violations, ensuring that victims receive justice and that authorities remain accountable. The commission’s existence underscores India’s recognition of human rights as fundamental and its commitment to safeguarding these rights through institutional mechanisms that are both independent and judicial in character.

NHRC's Role: Advisory Power and Limited Enforcement

Role and Functions of the National Human Rights Commission

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India serves as a vital institution dedicated to the protection and promotion of human rights across the country. Its primary functions are mainly recommendatory in nature, meaning that the NHRC suggests actions and policies to the government rather than enforcing laws or punishing violators directly. Unlike judicial bodies, the NHRC does not possess the authority to punish individuals or organizations found guilty of human rights violations or to award relief, including monetary compensation, to victims. Its recommendations are considered advisory and non-binding; however, they carry significant weight in influencing government action.

A key aspect of the NHRC’s functioning is the requirement for the government to respond to its recommendations within a stipulated timeframe—specifically, one month. This obligation ensures a degree of accountability, compelling the government to evaluate the suggestions and take appropriate action or provide justifications for non-acceptance. Despite the non-binding nature of its recommendations, the NHRC’s role is considered influential. A former member of the Commission emphasized this point by stating that the government cannot simply dismiss or ignore the recommendations made by the NHRC. Though its role is advisory, the Commission enjoys considerable material authority, and no responsible government can afford to overlook its suggestions, especially given that cases are forwarded to it by the Commission for consideration.

The NHRC was established as an autonomous body, reflecting its independence from direct governmental control, and its overarching goal is to uphold human rights principles within the framework of India’s democratic system. Its existence and functioning are designed to encourage government accountability, promote awareness of human rights issues, and act as a watchdog to prevent violations. The Commission’s advisory role aligns with the principles of parliamentary democracy and the rule of law, emphasizing that while it cannot enforce laws, its recommendations can significantly influence policy and administrative actions.

Limited Powers Regarding Armed Forces Violations

While the NHRC has broad jurisdiction over civilian human rights issues, its powers are limited when it comes to violations committed by members of the armed forces. This limitation underscores the sensitive balance India maintains between ensuring national security and safeguarding human rights. The Commission’s role in cases involving armed forces is strictly limited; it can seek reports from the Central Government and make recommendations based on those reports. However, it cannot directly investigate or prosecute violations committed by armed personnel.

In cases involving the armed forces, the process begins with the NHRC requesting a report from the Central Government regarding incidents of human rights violations. The government is then obliged to respond within three months, informing the Commission about the measures taken or reasons for non-action. This process aims to maintain accountability and transparency while respecting the constitutional and operational considerations that govern the armed forces’ functions.

The scope of the NHRC’s jurisdiction in these matters reflects a deliberate constitutional and legal balancing act. It recognizes that security concerns sometimes necessitate special provisions, and the Commission’s limited authority in this sphere is intended to prevent conflicts between national security priorities and human rights enforcement. This limited jurisdiction is crucial in maintaining the sensitive equilibrium between protecting citizens’ rights and allowing armed forces to operate effectively in challenging circumstances.

Reporting and Accountability Mechanism

To ensure transparency and accountability, the NHRC maintains a robust reporting mechanism. It regularly submits annual reports and special reports to both the Central and respective State Governments. These reports detail the Commission’s findings, recommendations, and observations regarding human rights issues across India. Once prepared, these reports are laid before the respective legislatures—Parliament at the central level and State Legislatures at the regional level.

The reports include a comprehensive account of the actions taken in response to the Commission’s recommendations, as well as the reasons for any non-acceptance of specific suggestions. This process ensures that the legislative bodies are informed about the status of human rights issues, government responses, and areas where further action may be required. Furthermore, the inclusion of the reasons for non-acceptance fosters transparency by explaining why certain recommendations were not implemented, thus holding the government accountable to legislative oversight.

The submission and scrutiny of these reports exemplify the parliamentary oversight role in human rights. Through this mechanism, the legislative bodies can examine government actions, press for accountability, and promote better adherence to human rights standards. This process also emphasizes the importance of transparency in governance, ensuring that the government’s actions are open to scrutiny and that human rights concerns are addressed comprehensively.

In summary, the NHRC operates primarily as an advisory body that promotes human rights through recommendations and reports, influencing government policy and administration without possessing enforcement powers. Its limited jurisdiction over armed forces violations reflects the complex balance between security and human rights. The reporting mechanism to legislatures ensures ongoing oversight, fostering a culture of accountability and transparency. Together, these features underscore the NHRC’s vital role in India’s democratic framework—encouraging respect for human rights and holding authorities accountable while navigating the constitutional and operational complexities inherent in national security and governance.

NHRC's Role in Protecting Human Rights

Activities and Initiatives of the National Human Rights Commission in India

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India is a vital statutory body established to protect and promote human rights across the country. Operating independently from the government, it reviews complaints, investigates violations, and recommends remedial actions to uphold the dignity and rights of all individuals. Its activities encompass a broad spectrum of issues, reflecting India’s commitment to aligning its national policies with international standards, addressing social inequalities, and reforming law enforcement and judicial processes to better serve vulnerable populations.

NHRC's Action: Protecting Human Rights in India

The diverse activities undertaken by the NHRC include legislative review, enforcement, awareness campaigns, and systemic reforms. The Commission actively reviews existing laws and policies to ensure they align with human rights principles. For instance, it monitors the implementation of laws like the Child Marriage Restraint Act, 1929, which aims to prevent child marriages—a practice still prevalent in some regions—by ensuring proper enforcement and suggesting amendments to strengthen its efficacy. The NHRC also advocates for reforms in laws related to bonded labor, trafficking, custodial practices, and the functioning of mental health institutions.

In its operational framework, the NHRC conducts research and advocates for policy reforms on issues such as bonded labor, child labor, women's rights, and the protection of marginalized groups like Dalits and tribal communities. It reviews cases concerning the functioning of government protective institutions such as Women’s Protective Homes in Agra and mental hospitals in Ranchi, Agra, and Gwalior, ensuring that these facilities uphold human dignity and provide appropriate care.

The activities of the NHRC also involve engaging with international treaties and conventions. India adheres to multiple international frameworks such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Geneva Conventions, which govern humanitarian treatment in conflict situations. The Commission works towards ensuring that India complies with these treaties, aiming for accession and effective implementation of international humanitarian laws and protocols, including the Convention against Torture and the Geneva Protocols. These efforts demonstrate India’s intent to align its national policies with global norms, fostering a legal and institutional environment conducive to human rights protection.

Combating Human Rights Abuses: NHRC's Focus Areas

The NHRC's focus extends to several critical human rights issues, particularly those affecting vulnerable and marginalized populations. One of its primary concerns is the abolition of bonded labor, a form of forced labor where individuals are bound by debt—often exploited in sectors like agriculture, brick kilns, and construction. Despite legal measures abolishing bonded labor, enforcement remains a challenge, and the NHRC continually reviews policies and monitors efforts to eradicate this practice.

Another significant issue is manual scavenging, a hazardous and dehumanizing practice involving manual cleaning of sewage and latrines, predominantly affecting marginalized communities. The NHRC actively campaigns for the abolition of manual scavenging, emphasizing human rights violations involved and pushing for effective implementation of laws that prohibit this practice.

Trafficking of women and children is another grave concern addressed by the Commission. Illegal trade and exploitation are combated through manuals, sensitization programs, and stringent legal measures aimed at dismantling trafficking networks and protecting victims. The NHRC also monitors relief efforts in disaster-affected areas, such as the Odisha cyclone and Gujarat earthquake, ensuring that relief measures comply with human rights standards and do not lead to further violations.

Addressing atrocities against Dalits, tribal groups, and other marginalized communities is central to the Commission’s mandate. Violence, discrimination, and social exclusion faced by these groups are tackled through the enforcement of existing laws, justice for victims, and social awareness campaigns. The NHRC’s oversight extends to mental health institutions like hospitals at Ranchi, Agra, and Gwalior, ensuring that patients’ rights are protected and that facilities provide humane treatment.

Furthermore, the NHRC emphasizes safeguarding human rights in areas of insurgency and terrorism. Special attention is given to maintaining a delicate balance between security measures and respecting fundamental rights, recognizing that conflict zones pose complex challenges to human rights enforcement.

Strengthening Human Rights Through Domestic and International Reforms

Systemic reforms are a cornerstone of the NHRC’s efforts. The Commission promotes changes in policing, prison management, and detention practices to prevent custodial deaths, torture, and abuse. It advocates for transforming police conduct, ensuring accountability and transparency, and establishing effective grievance redress mechanisms.

India’s engagement with international instruments is a strategic component of these reforms. The country seeks accession to various treaties like the Convention against Torture, Geneva Protocols, and refugee laws, which will reinforce its commitment to international human rights standards. The process involves adopting and implementing these treaties into domestic law, thereby strengthening protections for refugees, detainees, and victims of human rights violations.

International cooperation and treaty adherence influence domestic legal reforms profoundly, encouraging India to align its policies with global norms. This alignment enhances the effectiveness of the NHRC’s work, providing a legal framework for addressing complex issues such as torture, detention, and humanitarian treatment in conflict, disaster, or emergency situations.

Promoting Human Rights Culture and Capacity

A proactive approach to human rights protection involves raising awareness and building capacity among various stakeholders. The NHRC promotes human rights literacy through educational initiatives aimed at citizens, government officials, police personnel, armed forces, and civil society organizations. These programs seek to foster a culture of respect for human rights, emphasizing the importance of dignity, equality, and justice.

Training sessions for police, armed forces, and civil society organizations are organized to sensitize them to human rights issues and equip them with the knowledge to prevent violations. Such capacity-building efforts are vital in ensuring that human rights principles are integrated into everyday practices and institutional policies.

Collaborations with NGOs and academic institutions play a crucial role in research, advocacy, training, and policy development. These partnerships facilitate a comprehensive understanding of human rights challenges and promote innovative solutions, ultimately strengthening the institutional framework for human rights in India.

In summary, the activities of the National Human Rights Commission reflect a holistic approach to safeguarding human dignity. Through legislative review, enforcement, international cooperation, awareness campaigns, and systemic reforms, the NHRC endeavors to address social inequalities, uphold justice for marginalized groups, and foster a culture of respect for human rights across India. Its work underscores India’s ongoing commitment to aligning national policies with international standards, ensuring that the rights of all individuals are protected and promoted in a constantly evolving social landscape.