The Human Rights Commission (HRC) of India is the apex national institution for the promotion and protection of human rights in the country. It was officially established on 11th November 2000 under the statutory framework of the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA), 1993, which was subsequently amended by the Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2006.
The HRC was founded in response to India’s growing commitment to uphold the dignity, liberty, equality, and fundamental rights of all individuals, irrespective of caste, creed, gender, religion, or region. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that the principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution and international human rights instruments are effectively implemented and respected.
International Alignment
The HRC functions in full conformity with the globally recognized Paris Principles. These principles were adopted during the first International Workshop on National Institutions for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights, held in Paris in October 1991, and later endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly through its Resolution 48/134 dated 20th December 1993. The Paris Principles outline the standards relating to the status and functioning of national institutions, including their independence, mandate, pluralism, and operational efficiency.
