Duties & Responsibilities
Understand the core duties and responsibilities that guide the work of every National Human Rights Committee (R) team member.
Duties of National Human Rights Committee (R) Members
1. Support Local Law Enforcement
Assist local police and authorities in maintaining public safety and preventing crime, ensuring that law and order are preserved while respecting human rights.
2. Raise Awareness About Human Rights
Educate the community about their human rights and emphasize the importance of protecting these rights to ensure a fair and just society.
3. Organize Awareness Programs
Conduct educational programs in schools, colleges, and local communities to inform people about their fundamental rights and how they can protect them in their everyday lives.
4. Help Victims of Violations
Our primary responsibility is to assist and support those who have suffered human rights violations. Whether through legal aid, guidance, or emotional support, we are dedicated to helping victims seek justice.
5. Stay Informed About Laws
Every member must have a thorough understanding of human rights laws and principles, both nationally and internationally. This ensures that we are well-equipped to defend and promote human rights.
6. Promote Social Good and Prosperity
We are committed to fostering a sense of unity, justice, and equality in society, helping to improve the overall well-being and prosperity of all individuals, especially the underprivileged.
4. Work Against Corruption
Stand firm against corruption in all its forms. Promote transparency and accountability within local bodies and organizations.
5. Foster Communal Harmony
Organize community events that bring people together. Eradicate discrimination and foster a sense of brotherhood among diverse groups.
Commit to the Cause
Being a member is a responsibility towards society. Let's work together to make the world a better and safer place for everyone.
Join Our MissionCore Principles
Justice for All
National Human Rights Committee (R) members must stand up for the rights of every individual, regardless of their race, caste, religion, or background. We believe in defending the common man’s rights and fighting for justice and equality for all.
Voluntary Service
Serve the community selflessly without expecting monetary gains.
Responsibilities & Duties of National Human Rights Committee (R)
1. International Human Rights Law
Protecting Human Rights for All. International human rights law guarantees that every individual has basic freedoms and rights. It is the responsibility of states to not only avoid violating these rights but also to take active steps to protect and promote them.
2. Obligations of States
Governments are required to ensure that human rights are protected. They must also take action to prevent non-state actors (such as businesses or other organizations) from violating human rights.
3. Human Rights During Conflicts
Human rights laws must be respected even during times of armed conflict. While some rights can be temporarily suspended during emergencies, governments must still protect the fundamental rights of individuals as much as possible.
4. Monitoring and Complaints
International human rights law includes systems to monitor how well governments comply with human rights standards. It also allows individuals to file complaints if their rights are violated.
Fundamental Duties
Fundamental Duties, outlined in Article 51A of the Indian Constitution and added by the 42nd Amendment in 1976, are moral obligations of citizens to uphold the Constitution, national symbols, sovereignty, and heritage, promote harmony, protect public property, develop scientific temper, and provide education to children. Introduced by the Swaran Singh Committee, these non-enforceable duties emphasize responsible citizenship and were expanded in 2002 by the 86th Amendment to include the duty of providing education to children aged six to fourteen.
What are Fundamental Duties?
- They are a set of moral obligations that guide citizens in shaping a just and united nation.
- Introduced by the 42nd Amendment in 1976, they are found in Part IV-A of the Constitution under Article 51A.
- The Swaran Singh Committee recommended their inclusion to promote active citizenship and responsibility.
- While not legally enforceable, they are considered crucial for fostering a constitutional culture and responsible citizenship.
The Fundamental Duties were added in 1976, upon recommendation of the Swaran Singh Committee, that was constituted by Indira Gandhi just after the declaration of national emergency, to study and amend the constitution. This committee was under the Chairmanship of Sardar Swaran Singh, India's longest-serving union cabinet minister. Based on his recommendations, the government incorporated several changes to the Constitution including the Preamble, through the 42nd Amendment, which included the fundamental duties under the Indian Constitution.
However, by the 86th Amendment in 2002, the original 10 duties were then increased to 11, under Article 51A, Part IV-A of the Constitution of India.
The 11 Fundamental Duties
- To oblige with the Indian Constitution and respect the National Anthem and Flag
- To cherish and follow the noble ideas that inspired the national struggle for freedom
- To protect the integrity, sovereignty, and unity of India
- To defend the country and perform national services if and when the country requires
- To promote the spirit of harmony and brotherhood amongst all the people of India and renounce any practices that are derogatory to women
- To cherish and preserve the rich national heritage of our composite culture
- To protect and improve the natural environment including lakes, wildlife, rivers, forests, etc.
- To develop scientific temper, humanism, and spirit of inquiry
- To safeguard all public property
- To strive towards excellence in all genres of individual and collective activities
- To provide opportunities for education to children between 6-14 years of age, and duty as parents to ensure that such opportunities are being awarded to their child.
The 11 fundamental duties look at the crisis in Indian society and become a tool for straightening it out. They serve as a source of protection for the liberty of the people.
Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 (India)
1. National and State Human Rights Commissions
This law established the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and State Human Rights Commissions, which are responsible for investigating and addressing human rights violations in India.
2. Human Rights Courts
The law also created Human Rights Courts to ensure the quick resolution of human rights-related issues, giving victims a platform to seek justice.
Summary of Key Duties and Responsibilities:
- Assist in law enforcement to maintain peace while respecting human rights.
- Raise awareness about the importance of human rights and educate communities.
- Support victims of human rights violations by providing assistance and legal aid.
- Stay updated on human rights laws to better defend and protect individuals.
- Promote social justice, equality, and prosperity in the community.
- Advocate for the rights of all individuals, regardless of their background or status.
- Understand and apply International Human Rights Law to protect basic freedoms and ensure justice, both in everyday life and during conflicts.
- Be familiar with the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 to enforce human rights standards in India and work through the established commissions and courts.