Hyderabad: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India recently wrapped up a two-day session in Hyderabad, addressing 109 cases of human rights issues in Telangana. This event aimed to improve state systems, raise awareness among officials, and foster cooperation in delivering justice.
High-ranking officials, including the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, attended the meeting. Discussions focused on the welfare of women, children, and marginalized groups, along with enhancing accountability and enforcement in state governance.
Out of the 109 cases, 90 were reviewed publicly. Major concerns included hospital fires leading to child deaths, wildlife attacks, stray dog issues, trafficking of tribal women, police misconduct, pension denials, and infrastructure deficiencies. Notably, misuse of the Dalit Bandhu scheme and administrative failures in Gurukul schools were identified as systemic problems.
Key directives from the NHRC included ending caste-based discrimination in Khammam and demanding a detailed report on negligence in Gurukul schools within four weeks, addressing 48 deaths and 886 food poisoning incidents. The commission also required the Telangana government to provide documentation on wrongful arrests and alleged police brutality.
Following an industrial explosion linked to DRDO, a compensation of Rs 50 lakh was ordered for victims’ families. Authorities were also tasked with creating a standard procedure for managing stray dogs.
A constable involved in trafficking tribal women was dismissed, and the victims were rescued. Parallel strategic sessions led by NHRC Chairperson Justice V. Ramasubramanian stressed the importance of timely measures, prevention, and coordination across sectors. Bharat Lal highlighted environmental and human rights responsibilities for businesses.
The Full Commission’s hearing tackled issues like crimes against women and children, child malnutrition, educational gaps, human-animal conflicts, SC Corporation failures, farmer grievances, and LGBTQI rights. During this session, 19 cases were reviewed, recommending a total compensation of Rs 49.65 lakh, with Rs 22.50 lakh already paid. Additionally, 31 cases were resolved, mostly on merit.
The NHRC also collaborated with NGOs and human rights defenders to develop joint monitoring and solutions. The NHRC Secretary General stressed partnership with the State Human Rights Commission and urged citizens to use hrcnet.nic.in for digital grievance submissions.
Stakeholders highlighted issues like support for the elderly and disabled, assistance for bedridden patients, and delays in accessing social programs for children. Justice Ramasubramanian praised civil society’s role and reaffirmed the NHRC’s dedication to safeguarding constitutional rights impartially.
