The National Human Rights Commission is an autonomous, statutory, and non-constitutional body constituted on 12 October 1993 under the Protection of Human rights Act, 1993.
It consists of a chairman and few other members. They are appointed for 5 years or till the age of 70 years, whichever is earlier.
NHRC is responsible for the protection and promotion of human rights in India defined by the Act as rights relating to life, liberty, equality and dignity of the individual guaranteed by the Constitution or embodied in the international covenants.
NHRC has five divisions. They are Law Division, Investigation Division, Policy Research and Programmes Division, Training Division, and Administrative Division.
Functions of NHRC
To inquire into the violation of human rights or negligence in the prevention of such violation by a public servant.
To intervene in court proceedings relating to human rights.
To undertake and promote research in the field of human rights.
To engage in human rights, education among various sections of society.
To encourage the effects of NGOs and institutions working in the field of human rights.
State Human Rights Commission(SHRC)
Every state in India has a State Human Rights Commission established in accordance with the power conferred on the State under section 21of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
The State Human Rights Commission of Tamil Nadu was formed on 17 April 1997.
It consists of three members, including a Chairperson.
The state Human Rights Commission can inquire into violation of human rights related to subjects covered under State list and Concurrent list in the seventh schedule of the Indian Constitution (not if NHRC is already enquiring).
The Commission will conduct suo motu actions taken on complaints even if the Commission does not receive a written complaint.
Functions of SHRC
The SHRC shall enquire into violation of human rights in respect of matters specified in the state and concurrent lists.
Its objectives and duties are the same as NHRC, but confined only to the state.
It has the power of a civil court and can take cognizance of cases if received or in suo motu.
It can also recommend compensation to victims.
Human Rights Organisations
Many organisations around the world have taken their efforts to protect human rights and to end human rights abuses.
These Non- governmental organisations monitor the actions of governments and pressure them to act according to human right principles.
Some of these organaisations are Amnesty International, Children’s Defense Fund, Human Rights Watch.
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