John Wilbert. & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, June 15: The State Human Rights Commission Tamil Nadu held its maiden press briefing today at 11:00 AM at the Circuit House, under the chairmanship of Justice S. Baskaran, Chairperson of the State Human Rights Commission Tamil Nadu. The briefing centered on the upcoming establishment of a new office in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Justice S. Baskaran expressed his satisfaction as the Andaman and Nicobar Administration has assured the commission of providing office space and accommodation on the Islands. He said that the Lieutenant Governor has also pledged support for the prompt arrangement of these facilities for the State Human Rights Commission. The commission commended the commendable work being carried out by the administration in the Islands, focusing on the development and welfare of the citizens.
Once the office accommodation is secured, the State Human Rights Commission will commence its operations in the region. According to the Human Rights Commission Act, the commission is mandated to have an investigative wing led by an officer not below the rank of Inspector General of Police. In light of this requirement, the commission recently met with the Director General of Police and other senior police officers, who have committed to providing personnel for the investigation wing to address human rights-related issues.
The purpose of today’s media interaction was to raise awareness among the public about the upcoming establishment of the State Human Rights Commission office in the islands. It was emphasized that many people may not be fully aware of their rights and the wide scope of human rights issues. The right to life, as enshrined in our constitution, encompasses access to water, food, shelter, and employment opportunities. Any violation of these rights by any department will be considered a human rights violation, and the commission will take appropriate action against government departments responsible for such violations.
Justice Baskaran provided an example of a recent incident where judges of the high court informed him about a seven to eight-day period during the summer when there was no drinking water supply. This lack of essential services also constitutes a violation of human rights. The commission has been provided with evidence indicating that alternate-day water supply will soon be implemented, allowing them to take suo moto action against the concerned government department. Furthermore, the issue of police misconduct and violations of rules was highlighted. The commission has the authority to take action against government agencies when individuals fail to fulfill their duties, as it directly affects the rights of the common people.
