New Delhi:
A day after President Drupadi Murmu appointed former Supreme Court judge Justice V. Ramasubramanian as chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the main opposition Congress today issued a dissent, saying that the selection process had “fundamental issues”. It’s flawed.”
Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, and Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, have submitted their objections “without prejudice to the names of the Chairman and members approved by the Selection Committee”. was recorded.
Both leaders said a meeting of the selection committee was held on Wednesday. “This was a predetermined act that ignored the established tradition of mutual consultation and agreement that is essential in such matters. The committee relied on majority vote to finalize the name, ignoring legitimate concerns and perspectives raised during the meeting, in order to advance deliberations and ensure a collective decision. “I have decided to do so,” he said in his dissenting opinion.
Opposition leaders said the NHRC is an important statutory body tasked with protecting the fundamental human rights of all citizens, especially those from marginalized sections of society. “The ability to deliver on this mission depends critically on the inclusiveness and representativeness of its composition. With diverse leadership, the NHRC is able to respond to the unique challenges faced by different communities, especially those most vulnerable to human rights abuses. Remaining sensitive is guaranteed,” they said.
Congress leaders have proposed the nomination of former Supreme Court judges Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman and Justice K.M. Joseph to the post of chairman, “keeping in mind both merit and the need for inclusiveness” Ta.
“Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman is a distinguished jurist from the minority Parsi community known for his intellectual depth and unwavering commitment to constitutional values. This will send a strong message about the dedication of the NHRC as a representative of society. Similarly, Judge Kuttiyil Mathew, a former Supreme Court justice who belongs to a minority Christian community, has consistently issued decisions that emphasize individual freedom and the protection of marginalized groups. “He is the perfect candidate for this important position,” they said.
Congress leaders said they have recommended the names of Justice S. Muralidhar, former Chief Justice of Orissa High Court, and Justice Akhil Abdulhamid Qureshi, former Chief Justice of Rajasthan and Tripura High Court, for the post of NHRC commissioner.
“Judge S. Muralidhar is widely respected for his landmark judgments that advance social justice, including his work on violence in custody and the protection of civil liberties. “Inclusion of members of minority communities who have consistently defended and demonstrated a strong commitment to the principles of the Constitution will contribute to the effectiveness of the NHRC and its commitment to diversity,” the dissenting opinion said. states.
“Third, while there is no doubt that merit is the primary criterion, it is equally important to maintain a balance that reflects the diversity of regions, castes, communities and religions in the country.This balance ensures that the NHRC “By ignoring this important principle, the Commission risks undermining public confidence in this esteemed institution.” added. Parliamentary leaders warned of the “negative approach” taken by the majority of the selection committee, calling it “extremely disappointing”. “The credibility and effectiveness of the NHRC depends on its ability to embody the diversity and inclusivity that defines the spirit of India’s Constitution. The name we have proposed reflects this spirit and reflects the fundamentals of the Commission. “Consistent with the principles of the selection process, their exclusion raises serious concerns about the fairness and impartiality of the Constitution,” they said.
Justice Ramasubramanian has been appointed as the NHRC chairman, while Justice Priyank Kanungo and Justice Vidyut Ranjan Sarangi have been appointed as members of the Rights Commission. Mr. Kanungo is a former chairman of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights, while Justice Sarangi is a former Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court.
