Composition and Functions — Current Affairs 2026
Current Affairs Connections
NHRC Issues Notice to Delhi Police Over Farmers' Protest Handling
February 2024This recent development highlights the NHRC's active role in monitoring human rights during public protests and demonstrations. The Commission's intervention in the farmers' protest case demonstrates its suo motu powers and ability to take cognizance of human rights violations reported in media. The case illustrates the tension between maintaining law and order and protecting fundamental rights, a core area of NHRC's jurisdiction. The Commission's notice to Delhi Police showcases its investigative powers and ability to summon government agencies for explanations regarding their actions during crowd control operations.
UPSC Angle: Expect questions on NHRC's suo motu powers, its role in protecting rights during protests, and the balance between security measures and fundamental rights. This case study can appear in both Prelims (factual questions about NHRC powers) and Mains (analytical questions about human rights protection during civil unrest).
NHRC Recommends Compensation for COVID-19 Vaccine Side Effects Victims
January 2024The NHRC's intervention in COVID-19 vaccine-related issues demonstrates the Commission's evolving role in addressing contemporary human rights challenges. This case highlights the NHRC's power to recommend compensation and its ability to address systemic issues affecting large populations. The Commission's approach to vaccine side effects reflects its understanding of the right to health as part of Article 21 and its role in ensuring government accountability in public health measures. The case also shows how the NHRC adapts its mandate to address emerging human rights concerns in the context of public health emergencies.
UPSC Angle: This development can be tested in questions about NHRC's role in health rights, its power to recommend compensation, and the intersection of public health policies with human rights. Expect analytical questions about the Commission's role during health emergencies and its contribution to policy formulation.