State Human Rights Commission and Lokayukt

Introduction to State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) in Rajasthan

The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) is a statutory body established to protect and promote human rights at the state level, as per the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. Rajasthan State Human Rights Commission (RSHRC) was constituted to investigate complaints of human rights violations and negligence in the prevention of such violations by public servants. The commission acts as a watchdog for the protection of civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights as guaranteed by the Indian Constitution and international covenants. The RSHRC plays a critical role in reviewing the safeguards provided under the Constitution, recommending measures for effective implementation, and creating awareness about human rights among the public and government officials in Rajasthan. It also intervenes in court proceedings involving allegations of human rights violations, inspects jails and detention centers, and reviews factors that inhibit the enjoyment of human rights. The commission has quasi-judicial powers and can summon witnesses, call for documents, and recommend remedial measures, though its recommendations are not binding. The SHRC complements the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) by focusing on state-specific issues and cases. ⭐ परीक्षा महत्वपूर्ण तथ्य: • Rajasthan SHRC was established on 18 January 2000 • First Chairperson: Justice Kanta Bhatnagar (Retd.) • Works under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 • Headquarters: Jaipur • Remember the establishment year (2000) and first chairperson for direct questions • Questions often focus on the powers and functions of SHRC

• Established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993
• Rajasthan State Human Rights Commission (RSHRC) was constituted on 18 January 2000
• Headquarters located in Jaipur, Rajasthan
• Acts as a watchdog for human rights protection in Rajasthan
• Has powers to investigate, recommend, and create awareness
• 📌 Human Rights: Rights relating to life, liberty, equality, and dignity guaranteed by the Constitution or international covenants
• 📌 Statutory Body: An organization created by statute (law) of Parliament or State Legislature

Composition and Appointment of Rajasthan State Human Rights Commission

The Rajasthan State Human Rights Commission (RSHRC) comprises a Chairperson and not more than two members, as per the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. The Chairperson must be a retired Chief Justice of a High Court, while the members should be serving or retired judges of a High Court or District Court with at least seven years of experience, or persons having knowledge or practical experience in human rights. The Governor of Rajasthan appoints the Chairperson and members based on the recommendations of a committee consisting of the Chief Minister (Chairperson), Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, State Home Minister, and Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly. The term of office is five years or until the age of 70 years, whichever is earlier. Members are not eligible for further employment under the Government of Rajasthan or the Union Government after their tenure. The commission is supported by a Secretary and other staff as prescribed by the state government. ⭐ परीक्षा महत्वपूर्ण तथ्य: • Composition fixed by Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 (Section 21) • Appointment done by Governor of Rajasthan • Tenure: 5 years or 70 years of age • Questions commonly ask about the composition and appointment process • Remember the role of the Governor and the committee members

• Chairperson: Retired Chief Justice of High Court
• Members: Up to two, with judicial or human rights experience
• Appointed by Governor on recommendation of a high-level committee
• Term: 5 years or up to age 70, whichever is earlier
• Cannot hold further government office after tenure
• 📌 Chairperson: Head of the Commission, must be a retired Chief Justice of High Court
• 📌 Appointment Committee: Includes Chief Minister, Speaker, Home Minister, Leader of Opposition