The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India concluded a two-day visit to Odisha, holding significant hearings and discussions to address human rights issues in the state.
The commission, chaired by Justice V. Ramasubramanian, along with members Justice (Dr.) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi, Vijaya Bharati Sayani, and Priyanka Kanungo, conducted hearings on 121 human rights violation cases at the State Guest House in Bhubaneswar.
Senior NHRC officials, including Secretary General Bharat Lal and Registrar (Law) Yoginder Singh, participated in the proceedings, which were divided into two benches for efficiency.
In the afternoon session, the NHRC engaged with senior Odisha government officials, including Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, to discuss critical human rights issues and review the state’s initiatives. The discussions covered a wide range of topics, including urban development, drinking water supply, education, healthcare, social security, women and child welfare, tribal issues, environmental protection, journalist welfare, and rehabilitation of displaced persons due to infrastructure projects.
The NHRC provided valuable recommendations to enhance the state’s efforts in these areas. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja emphasised the state government’s commitment to addressing public grievances, with the Chief Minister personally overseeing hearings and implementing an online grievance redressal system. He highlighted Odisha’s vision for development by 2036 and its contribution to a developed India by 2047, aligning with the NHRC’s guidance.
The commission praised the state’s proactive measures, noting a decline in human rights complaints due to effective grievance mechanisms, including email, telephone, and online platforms.
The NHRC commended the Odisha government’s forward-looking plans and programs aimed at public welfare, expressing optimism about the state’s commitment to human rights. The visit underscored a collaborative approach between the NHRC and the Odisha government to ensure justice and welfare for all citizens.
