NHRC

Question 1

What type of body is National Human Rights Commission?

Answer 1

Statutory body, under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.

Watchdog of human rights in country

Question 2

composition of NHRC

Answer 2

FULL TIME MEMBERS
chairman - retired CJI
4 members- serving or retired judge of SC
serving or retired Chief Justice of HC
2 members with knowledge or practical experience wrt human rights.

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS - 4
Chairman of National Commission for Minorities
Chairman of National Commission for SCs
Chairman of National Commission for STs
Chairman of National Commission for Women

Question 3

Chairman and members of NHRC are appointed by

Answer 3

President along with a 6 member committee consisting of PM, Speaker of LS, Deputy chairman of RS, Opposition leaders of both houses, central home minister

Question 4

Tenure of members of NHRC

Answer 4

5 years or until they attain 70 years, whichever is earlier

Question 5

Removal grounds of members of NHRC

Answer 5

1. Insolvent
2. Engaged in paid employement
3. unfit to continue
4. unsound mind
5. imprisonment

In addition, President can remove on proved misbehaviour or incapacity->that case->matter goes to SC->IF APPROVED->REMOVED

Question 6

What are functions of NHRC?

Answer 6

1. Inquire violations or negligence in prevention of violation by public servant
2. intervene in proceeding involving allegations, pending in court
3. asses conditions in jails and detentions centres
4. review constitutional and legal safeguards
5. review factors restraining human rights ex.terrorism
6. study treaties and international instruments on Human rights
7. promote research in HR
8. spread literacy and awareness among people about HRs
9. encourage NGOs
10. functions necessary for human rights

Question 7

NHRC headquarters

Answer 7

Delhi

Question 8

Shed some light on working of NHRC.

Answer 8

1. Has powers of civil court. May call for information or report from centre or state or any authority subordinate to them.
2. Cant inquire post 1 year of alleged incident
3. Can take one of the following steps upon completion of inquiry
   a) may recommend compensation to victim
   b) may recommend action against public servant
   c) may recommend immediate relief to victim
   d) may approach SC/HC concerned for directions, writs etc