The Indian government is mobilizing a task force dedicated to the development of a National Action Plan on Human Rights (NAPHR). This task force answers to the United Nations Human Rights Council’s (UNHRC) Universal Periodic Review (UPR), who has placed the mandate for the NAPHR. With the inclusion of representatives from the Union Home Ministry, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), and various other ministries including social justice and health, this task force signifies an integral step in human rights reform.
Universal Periodic Review and Its Role
The UPR is a state-controlled procedure under the auspices of UNHRC that allows member states to articulate what measures they’ve taken to improve human rights and fulfill their responsibilities. Every four-and-a-half years, a cycle of review takes place where the records of member states are examined. India, in 2017, accepted 152 out of 250 recommendations on human rights. These accepted recommendations are mostly related to the sustainable development goals that include the elimination of poverty, provision of safe drinking water, sanitation, and enhanced protection for women and children.
However, India did not accept some recommendations, particularly those associated with the Armed Forces Special Powers Act and the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act.
Elements and Benefits of The National Action Plan on Human Rights
Previously, the UN had advised that India’s NAPHR should encompass issues such as rights to health, education, food security, and housing. They recommended it also address areas related to custodial justice and measures against trafficking of women and children.
Implementation of the NAPHR will address criticism India faces internationally regarding its human rights record while simultaneously strengthening the social justice system. Other benefits include improved administration of justice, fortification of human rights institutions, and the integration of human rights with developmental initiatives.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| UNHRC Establishment | 15th March 2006 by United Nations General Assembly |
| UNHRC Role | Promotion, protection of human rights globally and addressing situations of human rights violations with recommendations. |
| UNHRC Location | United Nations Office at Geneva |
Understanding the UN Human Rights Council
The UN Human Rights Council is an inter-governmental entity within the United Nations framework. It is charged with fortifying the promotion and safeguarding of human rights worldwide and addressing instances of human rights violations while also providing recommendations on these issues.
The council was instituted by the United Nations General Assembly on 15th March 2006, taking over from the United Nations Commission on Human Rights. The council convenes at the UN Office in Geneva.