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HUMAN RIGHTS
(BL-4004)
BY MUKESH KIRAR
UNIT – 4
QUES 1:- “What is protection of Human Rights act 1993,” Discuss it.
ANS :- The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 is a law enacted by
the Indian Parliament to protect and promote human rights in India.
The Act came into force on 28th January 1994 and established the
National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and State Human Rights
Commissions (SHRCs) to investigate violations of human rights and
recommend measures to prevent their recurrence.
The Act defines "human rights" as the rights relating to life, liberty,
equality and dignity of the individual guaranteed by the Constitution or
embodied in the International Covenants and enforceable by courts in
India. The Act also provides for the constitution of a Human Rights
Court at the district level for speedy trial of offenses arising out of
violation of human rights.
The NHRC is a statutory body that consists of a Chairperson and four
members, appointed by the President of India. The NHRC has the power
to investigate complaints of violation of human rights by public
servants, and it can also inquire on its own initiative or on the basis of
media reports. The NHRC also has the power to recommend to the
government to take appropriate action to prevent the recurrence of
human rights violations.
The Act also provides for the establishment of SHRCs in each state to
protect and promote human rights at the state level. Each SHRC
consists of a Chairperson and two members, appointed by the Governor
of the state. The SHRCs have the power to inquire into complaints of
human rights violations and recommend measures to prevent their
recurrence.
The Act empowers the NHRC and SHRCs to investigate complaints of
human rights violations against the police and armed forces. However,
their recommendations are not binding on the government, and there
have been criticisms that the NHRC and SHRCs lack teeth and that
their recommendations are often ignored by the government.
The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 is an important law that
seeks to protect and promote human rights in India. While the NHRC
and SHRCs have done valuable work in investigating human rights
violations, there is a need for greater awareness and implementation of
the Act to ensure that human rights are respected and protected in
India.
History:
The National Human Rights Commission was established on October
12, 1993. The statute of NHRC is contained in the Protection of Human
Rights Act, 1993, and further it is in conformity with the Paris
Principles, adopted at the first International workshop on national
institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights held in
Paris in October in the year 1991, and as endorsed by the General
Assembly of the United Nations in Resolution 48/134 of December 20,
1993. The NHRC is an embodiment of India's concern towards the
promotion and protection of human rights.
Composition of NHRC:
National Human Rights Commission is an independent body
constituted by the Central Government and consists of highly
knowledgeable team to work in the areas of human rights.
The composition of this Commission is:
• A Chairperson who is a retired Chief Justice of India
• One Member who is or has been a Judge of the Supreme Court
• One Member who is or has been the Chief Justice of a High Court
• Two persons having knowledge or practical experience in matters
relating to Human Rights.
The President appoints the chairperson and the members of National
Human Rights Commission, for which a committee nominates the
names. This committee consists of Chairperson, the Prime Minister
and the members including Home Minister, Leader of the Opposition in
Lok Sabha, Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Speaker and the
Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman.
Functions of NHRC:
The National Human Rights Commission has a very wide mandate and
includes civil and political rights, economic rights, social and cultural
rights, and other group rights. Section 12 of the Protection of Human
Rights Act, 1993, lays down that the Commission shall perform all or
any of the following functions, namely:
• Inquire, on its own initiative or on a petition presented to it by a
victim or any person on his behalf, into complaint of[2]:
o Violation of human rights or abetment
o or negligence in the prevention of such violation, by a
public servant;
• Intervene in any proceeding involving any allegation of violation
of human rights pending before a court with the approval of such
court;
• Visit, by intimating to the State Government, any jail or any
other institution under the control of the State Government,
where persons are detained or lodged for purposes of treatment,
reformation or protection, in order to study the living condition
of the inmates and make recommendations thereon;
• Review the safeguards by or under the Constitution or any law for
the time being in force for the protection of human rights and
recommend measures for their effective implementation;
• Review the factors, including acts of terrorism that inhibit the
enjoyment of human rights and further recommend appropriate
remedial measures on the same;
• Study treaties and other international instruments on human
rights and make recommendations for their effective
implementation;
• Spread human rights literacy among various sections of society
and promote awareness of the safeguards available for the
protection of these rights through publications, the media,
seminars and other available means[3];
• Encourage the efforts of non - Governmental organizations and
institutions working in the field of human rights;
• Undertake and promote research in the field of human rights.
• Other functions considered necessary for promotion of human
rights.
• Responsibility of Government authority.
• The Central Government or the State Government or any other
Authority is supposed to indicate its comments including actions
that are taken on the report/recommendations of the
Commission within a period of one month in respect of
complaints against public servants other than members of the
armed forces.
• In respect of complaints against members of the armed forces,
the Central Government has to indicate action taken on the
recommendations within three months to the Commission.
• Issue of the one-year limitation period.
• Purpose - not to have another judicial body it is an institution
which will give primary focus on the allegation of violation of
human rights and to provide quicker redressal as compared to
other redressal mechanisms. The court: District Courts to the
Supreme Court are always available to the people and the
Commission's role is not to replace these mechanisms.
Conclusion:
If human rights commissions are to truly protect the human rights in
India, it needs a revamp. The efficacy and authority of the
commissions will be greatly enhanced if their decisions are made
enforceable by the government as well. Misuse of laws by the law
enforcing agencies itself is often considered as the root cause of human
right violations.
Kinds of Equality
Equality is a concept that is often discussed in social, political, and
legal contexts, and it refers to the state of being equal in status, rights,
and opportunities. However, equality can be approached in different
ways, and there are several kinds of equality that are important to
understand. In this answer, we will discuss five kinds of equality,
namely political equality, economic equality, social equality, legal
equality, and cultural equality.
1. Civil Equality :-
Civil equality refers to the idea that every individual has the same civil
rights and liberties, regardless of their background or circumstances.
This includes the right to due process, freedom of speech, freedom of
religion, and the right to privacy, among other things. Civil equality is
essential for ensuring that everyone has the same legal protections and
rights, regardless of their race, gender, or other factors. Achieving civil
equality requires addressing the institutional and structural barriers
that prevent individuals from accessing their rights and liberties and
creating policies and programs that protect and promote civil equality.
2. Political Equality:
Political equality refers to the idea that every citizen has the same
political rights and opportunities, regardless of their social status,
gender, ethnicity, religion, or other factors. This includes the right to
vote, run for office, and participate in the democratic process. Political
equality is essential for ensuring that all voices are heard and that all
individuals have an equal say in how decisions are made. Without
political equality, certain groups may be excluded from the decision-
making process, leading to unequal representation and unfair
outcomes.
3. Economic Equality:
Economic equality refers to the equal distribution of resources, wealth,
and income in society. This means that everyone has access to basic
necessities such as food, shelter, healthcare, and education, regardless
of their income or social status. Economic inequality can have a
significant impact on individuals and communities, leading to poverty,
social exclusion, and unequal opportunities. Achieving economic
equality requires policies and programs that promote fair distribution
of resources and that address the structural and institutional barriers
that prevent people from accessing opportunities and resources.
4. Social Equality:
Social equality refers to the elimination of discrimination and
prejudice in all areas of life, including education, employment, and
housing. This means that everyone has equal access to opportunities
and resources, regardless of their gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual
orientation, or other factors. Achieving social equality requires
addressing the root causes of discrimination and prejudice, such as
biases and stereotypes, and promoting diversity and inclusion in all
aspects of society.
5. Legal Equality:
Legal equality refers to the idea that everyone is treated equally under
the law, regardless of their background or circumstances. This means
that everyone has the same legal rights and protections, and that the
law is applied equally to all individuals. Achieving legal equality
requires creating laws and policies that do not discriminate based on
factors such as gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation, and
ensuring that the justice system is fair and impartial.
6. Cultural Equality:
Cultural equality refers to the recognition and respect of all cultures
and traditions, without discrimination or prejudice. This means that
everyone has the right to practice their cultural beliefs and traditions
without fear of discrimination or persecution. Achieving cultural
equality requires promoting diversity and understanding across
cultures and traditions, and addressing the root causes of cultural
discrimination and prejudice.
In conclusion, the concept of equality is complex and multifaceted, and
there are several kinds of equality that are important to understand.
Achieving equality requires a concerted effort from individuals,
communities, and governments, and it requires addressing the root
causes of discrimination and inequality. By promoting political,
economic, social, legal, and cultural equality, we can create a society
that is fair, just, and inclusive for all.
Establishment of NHRC
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is an independent
statutory body established in India to protect and promote human
rights. The NHRC was established by the Protection of Human Rights
Act, 1993, which came into effect on October 12, 1993.
The establishment of the NHRC was a significant step towards
protecting the human rights of Indian citizens. Prior to the NHRC's
establishment, there was no specific institutional mechanism for the
protection of human rights in India. The lack of a formal institution to
address human rights violations was a major cause of concern for civil
society organizations and the international community.
The NHRC was established in response to a growing demand for the
protection of human rights in India. The NHRC was created with the
mandate to investigate, inquire, and intervene in cases of human rights
violations. The commission is also empowered to recommend remedial
measures and provide compensation to victims of human rights
violations.
The NHRC is a multi-member body, consisting of a Chairperson and
four members. The Chairperson is a retired Chief Justice of India, and
the members are appointed by the President of India, in consultation
with the Prime Minister, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the Leader of
the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and the Chief Justice of India.
The NHRC has the power to investigate and inquire into complaints of
human rights violations against both government and non-government
entities. The commission can also conduct suo-motu investigations
into incidents of human rights violations based on media reports or
other sources of information.
The NHRC has been instrumental in promoting awareness about human
rights in India. The commission conducts public hearings, seminars,
and workshops to educate people about their rights and to promote
human rights values.
Since its establishment, the NHRC has played an important role in
addressing human rights violations in India. The commission has
investigated and reported on cases of police brutality, custodial deaths,
extrajudicial killings, and other human rights violations. The NHRC has
also provided compensation to victims of human rights violations, and
recommended changes in laws and policies to protect human rights.
In conclusion, the establishment of the NHRC was a significant step
towards protecting the human rights of Indian citizens. The
commission has played an important role in promoting awareness
about human rights, investigating human rights violations, and
providing compensation to victims of such violations. The NHRC is a
critical institution in ensuring that the human rights of all Indians are
protected and promoted.
QUES 6:- Discuss the Structure and Function of State Human Rights
Commission .
ANS :- State Human Rights Commission was established for the
promotion and safeguarding of human rights in the country. As the
name suggests, it is a state-specific body that came into existence
through an Act of Parliament. The Protection of Human Rights Act of
1993 was the driving force behind the establishment of the State
Human Rights Commission.
The State Human Rights Commission is meant for a specific state and
therefore looks after the human rights protection of the people
belonging to that particular state and also looks at certain violations if
made in the same direction. Get the complete details of the State
Human Rights Commission and gain an in-depth knowledge about its
functions and powers.
Powers of SHRC
As discussed above, the State Human Rights Commission protects
human rights and prevents violations by adopting various measures. It
has been given certain powers to accomplish the given task easily.
• The State Human Rights Commission is given complete power to
manage the whole process independently.
• It possesses a complete set of powers similar to a civil court and
conducts judicial proceedings in the same way as a court.
• The SHRC has been vested with the power to demand information
from the Governor of the State or any other authority with
respect to the case & can also ask for compensation to be paid to
the victim.
• It can also reach out to the Supreme Court or the State High
Court if a direction or order is required.
Despite all the powers given to the State Human Rights Commission, it
is required to take any action with respect to a case only within the
year of its occurrence, or else it stays no more in its purview.
To this day, 26 states have formed the State Human Rights
Commission in their respective states and are successfully working
towards protecting human rights.
Limitations of SHRC
The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) is a statutory body
established in 1993 in India. While the SHRC is important in promoting
and protecting human rights in India, its functioning has several
limitations. Some of these limitations include:
• The SHRC has limited jurisdiction and can only investigate cases
related to human rights violations in India.
• The SHRC has no enforcement powers and relies on the
government to implement its recommendations.
• The SHRC does not have the authority to take action against
violations of human rights committed by private parties.
• The State Human Rights Commission has little jurisdiction over
cases that concern the armed forces.
In High Court:
If a PUBLIC INTEREST LITIGATION is filed in a High court, then two (2)
copies of the petition have to be filed. Also, an advance copy of the
petition has to be served on the each respondent, i.e. opposite party,
and this proof of service has to be affixed on the petition.
In Supreme Court:
If a PUBLIC INTEREST LITIGATION is filed in the Supreme court, then
(4)+(1) (i.e. 5) sets of petition has to be filed opposite party is served,
the copy only when notice is issued.
Court Fees:
A Court fee of RS. 50, per respondent (i.e. for each number of opposite
party, court fees of RS. 50) has to be affixed on the petition.
Procedure:
1. Proceedings, in the PUBLIC INTEREST LITIGATION commence
and carry on in the same manner, as other cases.
2. However, in between the proceedings if the judge feels he may
appoint a commissioner, to inspect allegations like pollution
being caused, trees being cut, sewer problems, etc.
3. After filing of replies, by opposite party, and rejoinder by the
petitioner, final hearing takes place, and the judge gives his final
decision.
The Evolution of PIL in India:
PIL has its origins in the United States, where it was first introduced
as a means of providing legal remedies to the marginalized and
disadvantaged sections of society. In India, PIL was first introduced in
1979 in the case of Mumbai Kamgar Sabha v. Abdul Bhai. The concept
was further developed in the case of SP Gupta v. Union of India in
1981, where the Supreme Court recognized the right of any citizen to
approach the courts on issues of public interest. The concept of PIL
was further strengthened in the case of Hussainara Khatoon v. State of
Bihar in 1985, where the Supreme Court emphasized the importance of
providing access to justice to the marginalized sections of society.
Types of PIL:
There are different types of PILs that can be filed in courts. Some of
the common types of PILs are: