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In order to ensure proper implementation of the Protection of Human Rights Act, the High Court of Karnataka has directed the state government to fill the vacancies in the Karnataka Human Rights Commission (KHRC).
The Division Bench of Chief Justice Prasanna Balachandra and Justice M.G.S. Kamal issued notice to the Karnataka government, KHRC, the Chief Secretary and the Secretary of Law Department to submit objections, if any, on the matter.
Appearing for the petitioner, Advocate S. Umapathy contended that people from distant towns of the state were not able to file their complaints with the State Human Rights Commission regarding violation of their rights as the post of Chairman and other members was vacant.
As per the petition, retired Justice D.H. Vaghela, who was heading the Commission, expired on March 10 this year. It said KHRC member R.K. Dutta passed away on February 24, 2023, while another member K.B. Changappa completed his tenure with the Commission on February 17, 2023.
The plea further pointed out that the objective of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 was to promote and safeguard the human rights, apart from providing a mechanism for proper redressal of grievances pertaining to violation of human rights, as well as ensuring victim-centric justice.
The petitioner said that on March 24 this year, he had made a representation to the Karnataka authorities, requesting them to fill the vacancies for the position of Chairperson and other members in the Commission. However, there was no response from the state government, leading to the petitioner moving the High Court, he added.
The High Court listed the matter for further hearing on July 6.
Filed by lawyer Sudha Katwa, the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) sought filling of the vacant posts in KHRC, contending that due to absence of the KHRC Chairman and other members, the people of the state were facing difficulties in filing cases related to human rights violations.
Keywords: Karnataka High Court, Karnataka Human Rights Commission, Chief Justice Prasanna Balachandra, Justice M.G.S. Kamal, Karnataka government, Protection of Human Rights Act