By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Finally, the state government on Tuesday announced the constitution of the State Human Rights Commission.
“With the spirit of fulfilling the responsibilities and obligation of the State government, we have decided to constitute the Human Rights Commission after the proposal was examined and approved by the Cabinet,” Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma said after a Cabinet meeting.
Speaking to media persons, Dr Sangma said the initiative was also in compliance to the relevant laws passed by Parliament including the Protection of the Human Rights Act, 1993 and the Protection of Human Rights Amendment Act, 2006, which directed all state governments to constitute the SHRC.
“It is important for the State not only to protect, but also to promote human rights,” Dr Sangma said adding that the decision of the Cabinet would also send an affirmative perception about the State to rest of the country.
However, the state government took an unduly long time in announcing the formation of the SHRC.
There was a thought earlier that there would be a regional commission for Human Rights for the Northeastern states as setting up of a commission was expensive, he said.
As no decision was taken in this regard, Dr Sangma said his government decided to set up its own SHRC.
The State Commission shall consist of a Chairperson who has been a Chief Justice of a High Court; one Member who is, or has been, a Judge of a High Court; one Member who is, or has been, a district judge in that State and two Members to be appointed from amongst persons having knowledge of, or practical experience in, matters relating to human rights.