India’s NHRC Faces Downgrade to ‘B’ Status

India’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is at risk of losing its prestigious ‘A’ grade accreditation. This follows a recommendation from the Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI). The SCA’s findings were made public during its 45th session in March 2025, denoting serious concerns about the NHRC’s independence, transparency, and effectiveness.

About NHRC Accreditation

The NHRC’s accreditation is vital for its operations. GANHRI classifies national human rights institutions (NHRIs) into ‘A’ and ‘B’ categories. ‘A’ status indicates full compliance with the Paris Principles, which set international standards for human rights bodies. Institutions with ‘A’ status can fully participate in UN human rights mechanisms. Conversely, ‘B’ status signifies partial compliance. NHRIs with this status can attend UN sessions but lack voting and speaking rights.

Reasons for Downgrade Recommendation

The SCA’s recommendation stems from persistent issues within the NHRC. Key concerns include the involvement of police officers in investigative roles. This practice raises questions about impartiality in investigations. The SCA also noted the NHRC’s lack of diversity. Currently, there is only one woman among the standing commissioners. Additionally, the appointment of the Secretary General, a senior civil servant from the Union government, has been seen as a threat to the NHRC’s independence.

Concerns Over Effectiveness

The SCA reported that the NHRC has not effectively addressed systemic human rights violations. It has failed to respond adequately to issues such as shrinking civic space and attacks on human rights defenders. Although the NHRC has intervened in individual cases, these actions have been deemed insufficient. The SCA emphasised that the NHRC needs to advocate for changes to the Protection of Human Rights Act to eliminate problematic practices.

Impact of Downgrade

The downgrade recommendation will not take effect immediately. The NHRC has a year to submit evidence demonstrating compliance with the Paris Principles. This period provides an opportunity for the NHRC to address the SCA’s concerns and potentially restore its ‘A’ status. The outcome will affect the NHRC’s ability to operate within international human rights frameworks.

Future Steps for NHRC

To avoid downgrading, the NHRC must implement reforms. This includes improving the transparency of its selection and appointment processes. It must also enhance cooperation with civil society and ensure its investigative staff are free from police involvement. Addressing these issues is crucial for restoring confidence in the NHRC’s independence and effectiveness.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically examine the role of the National Human Rights Commission in safeguarding human rights in India.
2. Discuss in the light of the Paris Principles, the significance of independence for national human rights institutions.
3. What are the systemic human rights violations in India? Explain their impact on civil society.
4. Comment on the relationship between government interference and the effectiveness of human rights bodies.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically examine the role of the National Human Rights Commission in safeguarding human rights in India.

1. The NHRC is mandated to investigate human rights violations and recommend actions to address them.
2. It plays important role in raising awareness and educating the public about human rights issues.
3. The NHRC monitors compliance with human rights laws and policies at national and state levels.
4. It has the authority to intervene in cases of systemic violations, although effectiveness has been questioned.
5. Recent concerns about its independence and transparency have raised doubts about its ability to fulfill its mandate effectively.

2. Discuss in the light of the Paris Principles, the significance of independence for national human rights institutions.

1. Independence is essential for credibility and effectiveness in addressing human rights violations.
2. The Paris Principles outline that NHRIs must operate free from government influence to ensure impartiality.
3. Independent institutions can better advocate for victims and hold authorities accountable.
4. Government interference can undermine public trust in NHRIs and discourage reporting of violations.
5. Compliance with the Paris Principles is critical for NHRIs to participate fully in international human rights mechanisms.

3. What are the systemic human rights violations in India? Explain their impact on civil society.

1. Systemic violations include police brutality, custodial deaths, and suppression of dissent.
2. These violations often result in a lack of accountability for perpetrators, eroding trust in law enforcement.
3. They create an environment of fear, discouraging civic engagement and activism.
4. Marginalized communities frequently suffer disproportionately from systemic abuses.
5. The impact on civil society includes shrinking spaces for dialogue, activism, and human rights advocacy.

4. Comment on the relationship between government interference and the effectiveness of human rights bodies.

1. Government interference can compromise the impartiality of human rights bodies, leading to biased investigations.
2. When NHRIs are perceived as extensions of the government, public trust diminishes.
3. Effective human rights bodies require autonomy to address violations without fear of reprisal.
4. Interference often results in inadequate responses to systemic issues, perpetuating human rights abuses.
5. Strengthening independence is crucial for enhancing the credibility and effectiveness of human rights institutions.