‘Mental health, cybercrimes, and climate change are threats to human rights.’
Context
President Droupadi Murmu addressed the challenges and opportunities in the modern era, highlighting the importance of safeguarding human rights amidst the complexities of digital transformation, climate change, and evolving economic models.
About the Key Highlights
Mental Health in the Gig Economy
- President Murmu emphasised the need for business leaders to prioritise the mental health of gig workers.
- She urged stakeholders to address workplace stress, reduce stigma around mental illness, and promote awareness for mental well-being.
Cybercrimes and Digital Challenges
- The President identified cyberbullying, deepfakes, privacy violations, and misinformation as emerging threats to human rights in the digital era.
- She called for a secure and equitable digital ecosystem that protects individual rights and dignity.
Climate Change and Responsibility
- Stressing the global nature of climate challenges, she highlighted India’s leadership in climate action.
- Initiatives like the 2022 Energy Conservation Amendment Bill and the Green Credit Program reflect the country’s commitment to a sustainable future.
Elderly Population and Policy Needs
- With India’s elderly population expected to grow significantly by 2050, President Murmu urged the formulation of policies that ensure their dignity and well-being.
- She called for empowering seniors to lead fulfilling lives as valuable members of society.
NHRC’s Role in Human Rights
- Acting Chairperson Vijaya Bharathi Sayani underscored NHRC’s commitment to protecting marginalised communities and fostering a society free from fear and discrimination.
- She reaffirmed the importance of national and international collaborations to uphold fundamental freedoms.
National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
- About
- The NHRC ensures the protection of fundamental rights such as life, liberty, equality, and dignity of individuals.
- It enforces rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution and international covenants recognised by Indian courts.
- Establishment
- Formed on 12th October 1993 under the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA), 1993.
- Later amended by the Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2006, and the Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2019.
- Established in line with the Paris Principles, which focus on the promotion and protection of human rights globally.
- Composition
- Includes a chairperson, five full-time members, and seven deemed members.
- The chairperson is typically a former Chief Justice of India or a Supreme Court judge.
- Appointment and Tenure
- The President appoints the chairperson and members based on recommendations from a six-member committee.
- The committee includes the Prime Minister, the Lok Sabha Speaker, the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, leaders of the opposition from both Houses of Parliament, and the Union Home Minister.
- The tenure is three years or until the age of 70, whichever is earlier.
- Role and Functions
- Functions as a civil court with powers to conduct judicial proceedings.
- Can call upon central or state government officials and investigation agencies to probe human rights violations.
- Investigates incidents only if they occurred within one year from the time of complaint.
- Primarily makes recommendations rather than issuing binding orders.
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