National Human Rights Commission Chairperson, Justice V. Ramasubramanian has emphasised the need for greater collaboration among National Commissions to promote and protect human rights. He made the remarks while addressing a Statutory Full Commission meeting with representatives of the seven deemed members of the NHRC in New Delhi yesterday.

 

Justice Ramasubramanian said, by working together, the Commissions can undertake meaningful initiatives to promote and protect the rights of various sections of society. He suggested appointing a Nodal Officer to coordinate among all the National Commissions. He also said that the NHRC could explore extending support to other Commissions, particularly in areas where they lack adequate investigative resources.

 

Justice Ramasubramanian expressed concern over the lack of rehabilitation measures for mentally ill women engaged in begging. He stressed the need to review policies concerning the welfare of persons with disabilities and identify existing gaps. He also raised concerns over inadequate social security for persons with disabilities and the denial of insurance coverage by insurance companies.

The seven deemed members of the NHRC are the National Commissions for Women, for Backward Classes, for Protection of Child Rights, for Scheduled Castes, for Minorities, for Scheduled Tribes, and the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.

 

National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) special rapporteur Sayeed Ahmed Baba addressed a meeting with heads of government departments at Saitual district in Mizoram yesterday. Mr Ahmad has stressed the need for greater public awareness of human rights and adequate counselling and de-addiction facilities for people, particularly youngsters, affected by substance abuse. He also stressed on the responsibility of government officials, whose work directly affects the lives and well-being of people, to ensure that their rights are respected and protected.