Finally, Karnataka also to have SHRC

Bangalore, Dec 17 (UNI) The Karnataka Government has decided to set up a State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) to inquire into complaints of violation of human rights, if any, by public servants.

Karnataka Home Minister M P Prakash told UNI here that by January 2007, a full-fledged SHRC would come into existence. The State Law Department had taken steps to complete the process of appointment of Chairperson and two members to the proposed SHRC.

He said the SHRC Chairperson would be appointed after taking into confidence the Leaders of the Opposition of both the Houses of the Karnataka Legislature, Assembly Speaker and Council Chairman. A Committee, comprising the Chief Minister, Karnataka High Court Chief Justice, and Presiding Officers and Leaders of the Opposition of both the Houses, was expected to finalise the composition of SHRC during the winter session of the Legislature, he added.

It may be recalled here that only Karnataka had not set up a SHRC till now despite instructions from the National Human Rights Commission and pleas by civil rights protection groups. The decision comes in the wake of the recent Supreme Court direction to the State to set up a SHRC and file compliance report within three months.

The SHRC was empowered to intervene in any proceedings involving allegation of human rights violation pending before a Court with the approval of the court, visit after intimating to the State Government jail or any other institution where persons were detained or lodged for purposes of treatment, reformation or protection, study the living conditions of inmates and make recommendations thereon. It could also review the safeguards provided by the Constitution or any law for the protection of human rights and recommend measures for its effective implementation.

UNI MV GD GM0954