Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) / Guidelines

Human Rights Commission 

1. Objective:

To define the structure, duties, responsibilities, and procedures for the appointment and functioning of Special Monitors to ensure effective oversight and promotion of human rights in various sectors and institutions.

2. Definition:

A Special Monitor is an honorary position within the Human Rights Commission of India, appointed to monitor, evaluate, and advise on human rights practices and violations in designated domains such as law enforcement, prisons, child rights, women’s rights, healthcare, labor rights, and more.

3. Scope of Work:

Special Monitors shall be assigned specific thematic or sectoral areas including (but not limited to):

  • Prisons & Custodial Institutions

  • Police & Law Enforcement Agencies

  • Rights of Women, Children, and Minorities

  • Migrant Workers & Displaced Persons

  • Human Trafficking & Bonded Labor

  • Healthcare & Mental Health Institutions

  • Education & Skill Development

  • Environmental Justice and Livelihood

4. Roles & Responsibilities:

  • Monitoring: Regular monitoring of designated institutions or issues from a human rights perspective.

  • Inspections: Conduct surprise and scheduled visits to institutions like jails, police stations, shelters, juvenile homes, etc.

  • Advisory Role: Provide recommendations for policy reforms, institutional restructuring, and legal amendments.

  • Reporting: Submit periodic analytical and factual reports to the Commission.

  • Liaison: Coordinate with local/state authorities, civil society organizations, media, and other stakeholders.

  • Advocacy: Promote awareness and sensitization around human rights issues.

  • Early Warning: Identify systemic risks or patterns that may lead to rights violations and report to the HRC.

  • Follow-Up: Ensure that directions/recommendations of the HRC are being implemented by relevant authorities.

5. Eligibility Criteria:

  • Eminent individuals with proven expertise in law, human rights, administration, academia, journalism, or social activism.

  • Minimum 15 years of experience in relevant sectors.

  • No ongoing legal/criminal case or disqualification from public service.

6. Appointment & Tenure:

  • Appointed by the Chairperson or Full Bench of the Human Rights Commission.

  • Tenure: 2 years (renewable based on performance and needs).

  • Voluntary and honorary position; expenses as per HRC norms may be reimbursed.

7. Code of Conduct:

  • Maintain impartiality, confidentiality, and independence at all times.

  • Refrain from political or commercial influence while discharging duties.

  • Submit truthful, unbiased, and well-documented reports.

  • Avoid media publicity without prior approval from HRC.

8. Reporting Format:

Each report submitted by a Special Monitor must include:

  • Title and Date of Inspection/Study

  • Area/Institution covered

  • Observations and Findings

  • Violations/Concerns identified

  • Recommendations and Action Points

  • Supporting documents/evidence (if applicable)

9. Support Provided by the HRC:

  • Official ID and authorization letter.

  • Access to necessary records and facilities.

  • Administrative and legal assistance when required.

  • Orientation/training (if applicable).

10. Termination or Withdrawal:

The HRC may terminate the assignment of a Special Monitor on the grounds of:

  • Misconduct or breach of trust

  • Non-performance

  • Conflict of interest

  • Health or personal reasons (voluntary resignation)

11. Confidentiality Clause:

All data, observations, and findings made during the course of duty are to be kept confidential and shared only with the Commission. Unauthorized disclosure will be treated as a breach of duty.

12. Review & Amendments:

These guidelines are subject to periodic review and can be amended by the Commission to meet evolving needs and standards.