Composition and Functions — Definition

Definition

The National Human Rights Commission is a statutory institution that examines human-rights concerns and promotes safeguards under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. Its composition combines judicial experience, human-rights expertise and specified institutional participation.

It can inquire into relevant complaints, seek evidence, review safeguards and recommend action, while also undertaking preventive and educational work. These functions complement judicial and administrative remedies.

Powers resembling those of a civil court help it investigate; they do not make it a criminal court that convicts and sentences an accused person. Its effectiveness depends on credible inquiry, independence and follow-through on recommendations.