The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) in India is a statutory body established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, at the state level.
- Composition:
- The SHRC consists of a Chairperson and other members, as determined by the respective state government.
- The Chairperson should be a retired Chief Justice of a High Court.
- One of the members should be a serving or retired Judge of the High Court, and the other members may include experts in the field of human rights, serving or retired civil servants, or representatives of NGOs working in the field of human rights.
- The members are appointed by the Governor of the state, upon the recommendation of a committee consisting of the Chief Minister, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, the Home Minister, the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly, and a nominee of the Governor.
- Functions:
- The SHRC is responsible for the protection and promotion of human rights within the state.
- It can inquire into complaints of human rights violations within its jurisdiction either suo motu (on its own motion) or upon receiving a petition or complaint.
- The SHRC can investigate cases of human rights violations, including those involving custodial deaths, police excesses, and violations of rights of vulnerable groups such as women, children, and minorities.
- It has the power to visit jails, police stations, and other places of detention to ensure that human rights standards are maintained.
- The SHRC can recommend measures to prevent human rights violations and to promote awareness about human rights.
- It can also recommend compensation to victims of human rights violations and disciplinary action against erring public servants.
- The SHRC submits annual and special reports to the state government and publishes them for public awareness.
- Working:
- Similar to the NHRC, the SHRC receives complaints and petitions from individuals, NGOs, and other organizations regarding human rights violations within the state.
- It conducts inquiries or investigations into the complaints received and issues recommendations or directives to the concerned authorities for redressal or remedial action.
- The SHRC may also hold hearings, summon witnesses, examine documents, and gather evidence during its inquiry.
- It collaborates with state government departments, NGOs, and civil society organizations to promote human rights awareness and education.
Overall, the SHRC plays a crucial role in protecting and promoting human rights at the state level in India by investigating complaints, issuing recommendations, and raising awareness about human rights issues specific to the state.
