• • Incident: Reactor blast at Atchutapuram SEZ, Andhra Pradesh on 21st August 2024.
• NHRC Action:

• • Took suo motu cognizance of media reports.
  • Issued notices to Andhra Pradesh officials for investigation on safety compliance and negligence.

National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) – Key Points

• • Purpose: Ensures protection of rights related to life, liberty, equality, and dignity as per the Indian Constitution and international covenants.
• Establishment:

• • Founded on 12th October 1993 under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.

• Amended by the Human Rights (Amendment) Acts of 2006 and 2019.
• Aligns with the Paris Principles for promoting human rights.
• Composition:

• • • Includes a chairperson (former Chief Justice of India or Supreme Court judge), five full-time members, and seven deemed members.
• Appointment and Tenure:

• • • Appointed by the President based on a six-member committee’s recommendation.
    • Members serve for three years or until the age of 70.
• Role and Functions:

• • Acts as a civil court for judicial proceedings.
  • Can use central or state officials and agencies for investigations.
  • Investigates human rights violations reported within one year.
  • Primarily provides recommendations.