Important for:

UPSC, Haryana HCS, Punjab PCS
Prelims: NHRC, Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993
Mains: GS Paper 2 — Polity, Judiciary, Human Rights

Why in News?

A High Court bench questioned the functioning of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), raising concerns about its role in addressing serious human rights issues and its adherence to its legal mandate.

What is NHRC?

• Statutory body established under:
  → Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993

Functions:

• Investigate human rights violations
• Recommend action
• Promote awareness

Key Issues Highlighted

1. Question on Effectiveness

• Concerns about:
  → Response to serious rights violations

2. Jurisdiction Debate

• Whether NHRC is:
  → Acting beyond its mandate

3. Limited Powers

• NHRC recommendations:
  ❌ Not binding

4. Time Limitation Issue

• Cannot inquire into cases older than 1 year

Judicial Perspective

• Courts emphasized:
  → Need for accountability
• Highlighted:
  → Importance of timely action

Broader Governance Issue

➤ Raises questions about:

• Institutional effectiveness
• Checks and balances
• Protection of fundamental rights

India-Specific Significance

• NHRC plays key role in:
  • Protecting citizens’ rights
  • Addressing grievances

➤ Weak functioning impacts:

• Rule of law
• Public trust

Key Insight for UPSC

➤ Institutions must not only exist

✔ They must:

• Function effectively
• Remain accountable

PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Q1. NHRC was established under:

A. Constitution
B. Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993
C. IPC
D. CrPC

✅ Answer: B

Q2. NHRC recommendations are:

A. Binding
B. Advisory
C. Judicial orders
D. Constitutional

✅ Answer: B

Q3. NHRC can inquire into cases within:

A. 5 years
B. 3 years
C. 1 year
D. No limit

✅ Answer: C

Q4. Which body protects human rights in India?

A. RBI
B. NHRC
C. NITI Aayog
D. Election Commission

✅ Answer: B

Q5. Public Interest Litigation is filed under:

A. Article 32 / 226
B. Article 19
C. Article 21
D. Article 44

✅ Answer: A

CBL Mains Practice Question

“Institutions like NHRC play a vital role in safeguarding human rights, but their effectiveness remains limited.”
Discuss challenges and suggest reforms.

FAQs

1. What is NHRC?

A statutory body for protection of human rights.

2. What are its powers?

Investigative and recommendatory.

3. What are its limitations?

Non-binding powers and time restrictions.

4. Why is it important?

Ensures protection of fundamental rights.

5. Which GS paper covers this topic?

GS Paper 2 — Polity.