Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a committee that met to select the new chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The meeting, which was also attended by leaders from the opposition Congress party, took place more than a month after the previous chairperson's tenure ended. The NHRC, which is responsible for protecting and promoting human rights in India, has been led by former Supreme Court judges in the past.
Appointment of Kharge as NHRC Chairperson: A Deeper Dive
The recent appointment of senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge as the new chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has garnered significant attention. Here's a deeper exploration of this topic, including its background and top FAQs related to both current and past events:
Background
The NHRC is a statutory body established in 1993 under the Protection of Human Rights Act. It plays a crucial role in safeguarding and promoting human rights in India. The commission's chairperson is usually a former Supreme Court judge or a distinguished jurist.
The previous chairperson, Justice H.L. Dattu, completed his tenure on December 2, 2022. Since then, the government has been in the process of appointing his successor.
Kharge's Appointment
On January 19, 2023, the government announced the appointment of Kharge as the new NHRC chairperson. The decision was taken after a meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which was also attended by leaders from the Congress party.
Kharge's appointment is significant as it marks the first time that a politician has been selected to head the NHRC. He is a veteran Congress leader and former Union Minister of Railways.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What are the responsibilities of the NHRC?
The NHRC is responsible for protecting and promoting human rights in India. It investigates complaints of human rights violations, conducts inquiries into specific incidents, and issues recommendations to the government for improvements.
2. How is the NHRC chairperson appointed?
The NHRC chairperson is appointed by the President of India on the recommendation of a committee headed by the Prime Minister. The committee also includes the Union Minister of Home Affairs, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and a Chief Justice of a High Court.
3. What are the qualifications for the NHRC chairperson?
The NHRC chairperson is usually a former Supreme Court judge or a distinguished jurist with expertise in human rights law.
4. What are some past controversies surrounding the NHRC?
In the past, the NHRC has faced criticism for being slow to respond to complaints, particularly those related to human rights violations by security forces. Some have also questioned the independence of the commission, especially when its chairperson is a political appointee.
5. What are the expectations for Kharge as the new NHRC chairperson?
Kharge's appointment has raised both hopes and concerns. Some believe that his political experience will enable him to engage effectively with the government and address human rights issues more effectively. Others have expressed concerns about the potential politicization of the NHRC under his leadership.
Conclusion
The appointment of Mallikarjun Kharge as the NHRC chairperson is a significant development that has garnered considerable attention. While the NHRC has faced challenges in the past, it remains an important institution for protecting and promoting human rights in India. The success of Kharge's tenure will depend on his ability to address existing concerns, enhance the commission's independence, and effectively address the human rights challenges facing the nation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Gulf Spic Labour Camp during his two-day visit to Kuwait and interacted with Indian workers, recognizing their contributions to the country's development. He also shared his vision for a "Viksit Bharat 2047" that is supported by the aspirations of these workers. Modi also emphasized on the hard work of Indian farmers and laborers saying that it motivates him to work even harder. The Prime Minister also mentioned the cost-effective data rates in India that facilitate easy communication for people around the world.
A controversial Indian guru known as Rampal and 14 of his followers have been given a life sentence for the murder of four women and a young child at his ashram in 2014. The victims died from suffocation after being locked in a room during a stand off between the guru's supporters and police. This sentencing comes after years of legal battles and controversies surrounding the guru and his followers.
The 55th GST Council meeting in Jaisalmer resulted in a flood of demands for disaster-specific levy by several states, following a request from Andhra Pradesh for a 1% GST levy to fund their flood recovery efforts. A Group of Ministers has been formed to examine the legal and structural issues surrounding this proposal, which was discussed in detail during the council meeting. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that other states such as Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Telangana have also expressed interest in being a part of the committee. The issue of a similar flood-cess levy by Kerala in 2019 was also brought up, with other states showing support for Andhra Pradesh's demand.
After highly anticipated negotiations, the Mahayuti alliance announced its cabinet portfolios for Maharashtra's ministers on Saturday evening. Highlights include CM Devendra Fadnavis retaining the Home Ministry and Eknath Shinde of the Shiv Sena receiving the Urban Development portfolio. This comes after the alliance dropped several leaders from its cabinet expansion. The winter session of the Maharashtra legislative assembly concluded today with six days of intense discussions and debates. Additional key meetings will take place today regarding the portfolio distribution for the new cabinet, with several key players vying for key positions.
The Foreign Secretary has confirmed that the UK has had "diplomatic contact" with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the group responsible for overthrowing Syrian President Bashar-al Assad. This comes after a period of uncertainty about whether the UK should engage with HTS due to its designation as a terrorist organization. Despite its proscription, the UK maintains diplomatic contact with HTS as a necessary measure.
The National Students’ Union of India Punjab President, Isherpreet Singh Sidhu, strongly condemns the arrest of Aden Karanveer Singh by SHO Narinder for peacefully protesting for Senate Elections at the Panjab University Bachao Morcha. Sidhu highlights how such actions not only violate the democratic right to dissent but also lead to the loss of Punjab's bright minds and the creation of figures like Lawrence Bishnoi. He calls for immediate action against SHO Narinder and urges higher authorities to intervene and ensure justice for the students. Sidhu reaffirms NSUI Punjab's support for the students and their demand to be heard, respected, and empowered.
The Assembly was abuzz with discussions on the tragic Sandhya Theater stampede, with AIMIM floor leader Akbaruddin calling for a thorough investigation into the incident. He also criticized Allu Arjun for not visiting the hospital to meet the victims. CM Revanth Reddy assured that a comprehensive investigation would be conducted and necessary action would be taken in response to the incident.
Isherpreet Singh Sidhu, the National Students' Union of India Punjab President, strongly denounces the arrest of Karanveer Singh for peacefully protesting at the Panjab University Bachao Morcha and the alleged manhandling by SHO Narinder. Sidhu considers this a violation of democratic principles and a tactic used to suppress the voices of Punjab's youth. He demands immediate and strict action against the police officer and urges higher authorities to intervene and ensure justice for the students. The NSUI Punjab stands in solidarity with the students, emphasizing the need to respect their voices and empower them.
In a fiery speech, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy addressed the criticism from opposition leaders regarding the Rythu Bharosa scheme. He assured citizens that the government is committed to fulfilling all promises made and provided updates on the scheme's implementation. Reddy also highlighted the inclusivity of the process and denounced the previous government for misusing funds meant for farmers.
Congress leader Laxmi Hebbalkar, who is known for her feisty demeanor, has been embroiled in a recent controversy where she has accused BJP MLC C T Ravi of using derogatory terms against her. She has taken a stand for women's rights and filed a complaint of sexual harassment against Ravi, leading to his arrest. Hebbalkar, who is considered a close associate of Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, has managed to secure the support of the Congress leadership in her fight against injustices. However, her political career has not been without drama and controversies, including a falling out with the Jarkiholi brothers.