UPSC Mains 2018 · GS II · Q16 · 15 marks · 250 words

Multiplicity of various commissions for the vulnerable sections of the society leads to problems of overlapping jurisdiction and duplication of functions. Is it better to merge all commissions into an umbrella Human Rights Commission? Argue your case.

हिन्दी में

समाज के कमज़ोर वर्गों के लिए विभिन्न आयोगों की बहुलता, अतिव्यापी अधिकारिता और प्रकार्यों के दोहरेपन की समस्याओं की ओर ले जाती है। क्या यह अच्छा होगा कि सभी आयोगों को एक व्यापक मानव अधिकार आयोग के छत्र में विलय कर दिया जाय? अपने उत्तर के पक्ष में तर्क दीजिए।

How a topper answered the closest question

Toppers wrote this one in a test series: “Critically examine the functioning of National Human Rights Commission of India (NHRC) as an apex institution entrusted with the protection of human rights in the country.”

Sapna Chandel258 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening · a definition

NHRC is a statutory body constituted under the Human Rights Act as the protector of rights of its citizens.

[NHRC - Protector of human rights]

Body · points and prose

(i) It receives complaints on violation of human rights & also take sua motu actions. [eg]: Raising issue of death of manual scavengers. (ii) It works closely with civil society groups & bodies to ensure protection. (iii) It organises visits to detention places & jails to study condition of inmates. eg:- revealed jails in country over 130% occupied.

iv) Raised voice for weak & vulnerable

  • During COVID19 included sex workers for provision of relief.

v) In last 25 yrs it has resolved over 70 lakh cases & provided compensation of over 1 billion.

But, NHRC - as a toothless Tiger

(1) The report presented by it to the parliament is mere recommendatory. (2) It lacks the power to impose punishments, can recommend to government. (3) Poor track record on inaction has led to its deacredition by GANHRI, for second consecutive year. (4) Delays in action & executive interference have raised questions. eg: → Issue of Manipur Violence (women Paraded Naked). (5) Can only look into human violation 1 year old, limited power in crimes by the defense Personnel.

This calls for strengthning it via

→ (1) Independent appointment procedure with constitutional backing

→ (2) Fundings & appointment delay be addressed.

→ (3) Shall take up more matters like Digital crimes, Mental health.

Close · a way forward

True strength of democracy is realised when it protects its peoples basic Human Rights & NHRC is way for it.

How toppers approach this question, and more on its topic: open the question.

Toppers’ answers to other close questions

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Main) Examination 2018, General Studies Paper II, Q16. The paper on upsc.gov.in. Themes and links to toppers’ answers are by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.