Critically examine the functioning of National Human Rights Commission of India (NHRC) as an apex institution entrusted with the protection of human rights in the country.

NHRC was established in 1993 with India ratification to Human rights charter of UN. To protect, promote human rights in India. Role in Protecting human rights in India: (1) Take suo-moto cognizance of matters. (2) Can investigate violation of human rights. (3) Can summon government officials. (4) Have the powers of civil courts. (5) Can take up complaints & case from SHRCs. (6) Recommend action to Central government to prosecute or any government official. (7) Visit Jail on detention centers for checking. (8) Collaborate with international agencies of human rights protection. (9) Conduct research & development for human rights.

Effectiveness doubted by many: (1) Policing ministry inquiring. (Custodial death is due to police NAS (2) Undertrial. (Article about 2/3rd undertrial are in jail having completed years for with they are undertrial - sentencing for which stay are undertrials. (3) Women petitioned case. Article 51 FIRs per hour for women violated every. → only few or so recommendations. Recommend → (1) dependent on Executive for investigating staff, funds, office of Complaints & mandate and from older than 1 year. → (2) Cant entertain complaints & custodial and detained older than 1 year. → (3) Limited outreach to SHRC. → (4) Allocation of biopower against article opposition party ruled states → (5) No leader of opposition in 17th Lok Sabha

Thus, NHRC needs do be revamped by ensuring transparency, proactive & constructive approach.

— SATVIK SHARMA · AIR 327