State Human Rights Commission

A State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) is a statutory body established by the government of a state in India to protect and promote human rights. The SHRC is an independent body that is not part of the government. It is headed by a chairperson who is appointed by the governor of the state. The other members of the SHRC are also appointed by the governor.

The SHRC has the power to inquire into any complaint of violation of human rights. It can also suo motu take up any matter of human rights violation. The SHRC has the power to summon witnesses, take evidence, and issue directions to the government.

The SHRC can recommend compensation to the victims of human rights violations. It can also recommend disciplinary action against the erring officials. The SHRC can also recommend legislative measures to prevent human rights violations.

The SHRC has played a significant role in protecting and promoting human rights in India. It has helped to bring about a number of positive changes in the field of human rights.

Functions of the State Human Rights Commission

The functions of the State Human Rights Commission are as follows:

• To inquire into any complaint of violation of human rights.
• To suo motu take up any matter of human rights violation.
• To recommend compensation to the victims of human rights violations.
• To recommend disciplinary action against the erring officials.
• To recommend legislative measures to prevent human rights violations.

Powers of the State Human Rights Commission

The powers of the State Human Rights Commission are as follows:

• To summon witnesses.
• To take evidence.
• To issue directions to the government.
• To recommend compensation to the victims of human rights violations.
• To recommend disciplinary action against the erring officials.
• To recommend legislative measures to prevent human rights violations.

Procedure for filing a complaint with the State Human Rights Commission

A complaint can be filed with the State Human Rights Commission in the following manner:

• The complaint should be in writing.
• The complaint should be signed by the complainant.
• The complaint should give the details of the violation of human rights.
• The complaint should give the name and address of the complainant.
• The complaint should be accompanied by the relevant documents.

The complaint can be sent to the State Human Rights Commission by post or by hand.

Timeline for disposal of complaints by the State Human Rights Commission

The State Human Rights Commission is required to dispose of a complaint within a period of six months. However, the Commission can extend the time limit for disposal of a complaint if it is satisfied that there are good reasons for doing so.

Remedies available to the victims of human rights violations

The victims of human rights violations can seek the following remedies from the State Human Rights Commission:

• Compensation.
• Disciplinary action against the erring officials.
• Legislative measures to prevent human rights violations.

Conclusion

The State Human Rights Commission is an important institution for the protection and promotion of human rights in India. The Commission has played a significant role in bringing about a number of positive changes in the field of human rights. The Commission has helped to ensure that the rights of the people are protected and that the erring officials are brought to justice.