Which of the following are the functions of the National Human Rights

Which of the following are the functions of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)?

  • 1. Inquiry at its own initiative on the violation of human rights
  • 2. Inquiry on a petition presented to it by a victim
  • 3. Visit to jails to study the condition of the inmates
  • 4. Undertaking and promoting research in the field of human rights

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1 and 2 only
2, 3 and 4 only
1, 3 and 4 only
1, 2, 3 and 4
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CDS-1 – 2018
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India is a statutory body established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. The Act explicitly lists the functions of the Commission.
According to Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, the functions of the Commission include:
1. Inquiring, suo motu or on a petition presented to it by a victim or any person on his behalf, into complaint of violation of human rights or abetment thereof or negligence in the prevention of such violation by a public servant. (Covers statements 1 and 2).
2. Visiting jails, other institutions under the control of the State Government, where persons are detained or lodged for purposes of treatment, reformation or protection, to study the living conditions of the inmates and make recommendations thereon. (Covers statement 3).
3. Undertaking and promoting research in the field of human rights. (Covers statement 4).
Other functions include reviewing safeguards, recommending remedial measures, studying international instruments, promoting human rights literacy, and encouraging NGOs working in the field. All four statements provided in the question are indeed functions of the NHRC.