About National Human Rights Commission (NHRC):
- The NHRC is an independent statutory body established on October 12, 1993, under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
- It serves as a guardian of human rights in India, overseeing the rights associated with life, liberty, equality, and dignity as guaranteed by the Constitution of India and international covenants.
- The NHRC aligns with the Paris Principles on Human Rights, ensuring accountability and compliance.
Definition of Human Rights:
- According to Section 2(1)(d) of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, human rights encompass the rights related to life, liberty, equality, and dignity protected by the Constitution or outlined in international treaties enforceable in Indian courts.
NHRC Composition
- The NHRC is a multi-member body, comprising:
- Full-Time Members:
- A chairperson (retired Chief Justice of India or Supreme Court judge).
- Members include a sitting/retired Supreme Court judge, a Chief Justice of a High Court, and three experts in human rights (one must be a woman).
- Ex-Officio Members: Chairpersons of:
- National Commission for Minorities, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Women, Backward Classes, Protection of Child Rights, and Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.
Appointment:
- Members are appointed by the President of India based on recommendations from a six-member committee led by the Prime Minister, with participation from:
- Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha,
- Leaders of the Opposition in both Houses of Parliament,
- Union Home Minister.
- Consultation with the Chief Justice of India is required for appointing judicial members.
Tenure and Conditions of Service:
- Term: 3 years or up to 70 years of age (whichever is earlier).
- Reappointment: Allowed after completing the term.
- After tenure, members cannot seek employment with the Central or State governments.
Salaries and Allowances:
- Determined by the Central Government, but terms cannot be altered to members’ disadvantage post-appointment.
Removal Process:
- The President of India can remove members on grounds such as:
- Insolvency, paid employment outside office, physical/mental incapacity, unsound mind, or criminal conviction.
- For misconduct or incapacity, the matter is referred to the Supreme Court for inquiry, and removal is based on its recommendation.
