NHRC annual report stresses need for good, responsive governance

The report reiterated the conviction of the NHRC that there was an integral relationship between the proper promotion of civil and political rights and furtherance of economic, social and cultural rights. It said that only on the pillars of good governance and firm commitment to policies of equity and justice, the promotion and protection of human rights rests.

It revealed that despite facing many challenges, the NHRC consolidated its role and gained ground. This was evident from the fact that in 1997-1998, the Commission considered 27,289 cases compared to 16,823 cases in the previous year, which was an increase of 62 per cent.

However, NHRC sought to multiply its capacity by the appointment of special officers to monitor situations and follow up on directions it had issued and to help it discharge the responsibilities entrusted to it by the Supreme Court.

In 1997-98, the Commission faced exceptional new challenges, requiring it to strengthen its methods of working. It strove to good purpose to handle its increasing responsibilities with a greater eye on detail, whether in respect of civil and political rights or economic social and cultural rights, the report stated.

The report welcomed the tributes paid in the country to Nobel laureate Amartya Sen, whose work NHRC had drawn upon in dealing with various issues before it and hoped that this would stimulate debate, policies and practical measures conducive to the better protection of human rights in the country.