National Human Rights Commission
Photo: A.M.Ahad / driknews
It is encouraging that the Commission is empowered to investigate violation of human rights by any person, organisation, public servant or statutory body and even defence services. It can conduct investigation on its own or after receiving a complaint. In case of investigation and inquiry, the Commission shall have the same power as a Civil Court under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, according to Section 16 of the Act, passed recently with a view to establish Human Rights Commission. As per section 19 of the same Act, if after investigation the Commission finds that the accusation is true, it can either suggest to the government to take action or file suit in the court or writ petition before the High Court Division under Article 102 of the Constitution. My opinion is that, if after investigation the Commission finds that the charge is true, why shall not it be able to give redress to the aggrieved? Of course the commission should not be a mere monitoring body. And yes, the commission is also empowered under Section 12(Ga) to supervise the living standard in jails, correction centres etc. and suggest to the government to take necessary steps to improve their condition. Our aspiration is that the commission will start this task immediately. May the Human Rights Commission be a place of hope for those who are aggrieved by the violation of their rights!
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