The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India organised a day-long Conference of the State Human Rights Commissions (SHRCs) along with its Special Rapporteurs and Special Monitors in virtual mode at its premises in New Delhi. Chairing the Conference, NHRC Chairperson, Justice V. Ramasubramanian emphasised that India’s human rights framework is unique, as both the NHRC and SHRCs exercise concurrent jurisdiction on certain matters in addition to their subject-specific jurisdiction. He underlined that the country’s human rights performance is assessed collectively through the functioning of all Commissions. Therefore, there is a need to avoid duplication of cases, improve information sharing and promote best practices. NHRC Members, Justice (Dr.) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi, Smt. Vijaya Bharathi Sayani; Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal; DG (I), Smt. Anupama Nilekar Chandra and senior officers were present.
Justice Ramasubramanian urged SHRCs to digitise their functioning and join a common integrated HRCNet portal with the NHRC. He also cautioned the Commissions against exceeding their jurisdiction, noting that while courts have expanded the scope of fundamental and human rights, human rights institutions must remain guided by the definition under the Protection of Human Rights Act. He said that maintaining jurisdictional clarity would reduce unnecessary litigation and enable Commissions to deliver more effective and quality service. He also expressed hope for closer collaboration and future in-person engagements among the Commissions.
Member, Justice (Dr.) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi described the interaction between the NHRC and SHRCs as an important initiative to strengthen coordination. He underlined the need for better communication and coordination between them to ensure effective implementation of orders and timely delivery of benefits to persons in distress, particularly in sensitive matters such as custodial deaths.
Member, Smt. Vijaya Bharathi Sayani urged SHRCs to increase field visits and engage more with affected communities. She said that coordination between SHRCs and NHRC Special Monitors and Special Rapporteurs may strengthen institutional effectiveness. She also highlighted the initiative of Karnataka government displaying SHRC contact details for public assistance.
