The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) was established in India in 1993 under the Protection of Human Rights Act to promote and protect human rights nationwide by addressing violations, reviewing safeguards, and spreading awareness in line with constitutional and international commitments.

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• NHRC and State Human Rights Commissions were constituted in 1993 to institutionalize protection of human dignity, liberty, equality, and fundamental freedoms.

• The Commission operates under the Protection of Human Rights Act, amended in 2006, aligned with UN-endorsed Paris Principles.

• NHRC is chaired by a former Chief Justice of India or Supreme Court judge, supported by judicial and human rights experts.

• Members are appointed by the President through a high-level committee involving government and opposition leadership.

• NHRC can inquire into violations, visit detention institutions, review laws, and recommend remedies and compensation.

• The Commission has civil court–like powers but cannot enforce its recommendations directly.

• Limited autonomy, manpower shortages, and dependence on government resources constrain NHRC’s effectiveness.