While Merit A Primary Criterion, Inclusivity Is Essential': Congress Objects To NHRC Appointments
New Delhi: The Congress party has issued a dissent note to the selection of the new chairperson and members of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Calling the selection process “fundamentally flawed.” and “pre-determined,” the party alleged that the exercise ignored the established tradition of mutual consultation and consensus, underscoring that it was essential for such matters.
The Congress party’s criticism comes a day after President Droupadi Murmu appointed former Supreme Court judge Justice V. Ramasubramanian as NHRC chairperson. In the dissent note, the Congress party noted that the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge had proposed the names of Justice Rohinton Nariman and Justice KM Joseph for the position of the Chairperson of NHRC.
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The Congress pointed out that the departure from tradition undermines the principles of fairness and impartiality, reminding that it is crucial for the credibility of the selecting committee.
Noting that the NHRC is a vital statutory body tasked with safeguarding the fundamental human rights of all citizens, particularly those from the oppressed and marginalised sections of society, the Congress asserted that the organisation’s ability to fulfil the mandate depends “significantly on the inclusiveness and representativeness of its composition.” The letter suggested a diverse leadership to ensure that the NHRC remains sensitive to the unique challenges faced by various communities, especially those most vulnerable to human rights violations.
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Defending its proposed names for the NHRC chiefs, the Congress said that Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman is a distinguished jurist from the minority Parsi community, and is renowned for his intellectual depth and unwavering commitment to constitutional values. “Justice Joseph, a former Supreme Court judge belonging to the minority Christian community, has consistently delivered judgments that emphasise individual freedoms and the protection of marginalised groups, making him an ideal candidate for this critical position,” the letter said.
The Congress party also recommended the names of Justice S Muralidhar and Justice Akil Abdulhamid Qureshi, claiming both have exemplary track records in upholding human rights.
The grand old party, while highlighting the importance of merit as the primary criterion for the roles, emphasised that finding a balance reflecting regional caste, community and religious diversity is essential. The party finally stated that it was regrettable the dismissive approach adopted by the selection committee, stressing the credibility of the statutory entity.
Rahul Gandhi, LoP in Lok Sabha and Mallikarjun Kharge, LoP in Rajya Sabha proposed the names of Justice Rohinton Nariman and Justice KM Joseph for Chairperson, NHRC.
Justice Muralidhar and Justice Akhil Qureshi for members of NHRC. https://t.co/JE9RUqsqmf pic.twitter.com/xMEymbCieB
— Arvind Gunasekar (@arvindgunasekar) December 24, 2024
