The Office of the Nagaland State Human Rights Commission (NSHRC) was formally inaugurated today by Justice Songkhupchung Serto, Chairman of the Commission. On the occasion, he unveiled the inaugural plaque and also the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Display Board in the presence of distinguished dignitaries.
In his address, Justice Serto expressed his profound gratitude to Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio for his unwavering support in establishing the Commission and enabling its various activities.
He highlighted that although the Government had earlier issued a notification for the establishment of the Commission, it became functional only on March 21 with the appointment of its Chairman. Subsequently, a Member was also appointed.
The Commission initially operated from a government bungalow at Agri Colony before shifting to its present office located on the 2nd Floor of the Nagaland Commission Complex, Thizama Road, Kohima.
Justice Serto elaborated on the key activities undertaken by the Commission. The Commission has visited nine districts across the State to assess access to medical and educational facilities, examine challenges in public distribution systems, and make recommendations for improvement. It has also recommended the introduction of science streams in educational institutions, addressing shortages of teachers, and strengthening healthcare infrastructure through better buildings, adequate deployment of doctors, and technical staff.
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Among its significant achievements, the Commission has contributed to establishing a legal framework for organ transplantation facilities in Nagaland, with the Government presently working towards operationalising the same. The Commission has also recommended the adoption of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act to ensure the dignity and well-being of elderly persons. Additionally, advisories have been issued for hospitals to create dedicated counters and special facilities for senior citizens.
The Commission has further recommended improvements in police station lock-ups, particularly with regard to sanitation and toilet facilities. It has also taken cognizance of custodial death cases, disposing of four such matters and recommending payment of compensation.
A notable highlight of the event was the release of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights translated into recognised languages and dialects of Nagaland. With this initiative, Nagaland joins the global effort of making the Declaration available in over 500 languages worldwide. The State also takes pride in being among the few to have a dedicated office for its Human Rights Commission.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by R Nzanbemo Lotha, Member, NSHRC. A special song was presented by Lanupokyim. The event was compered by Pemei Konyak, JSO, and included a dedicatory prayer by Apang K, Fellowship Pastor, KBBK. The vote of thanks was delivered by T Nungsang Sangtam, Secretary, NSHRC.
Dignitaries present on the occasion included Nino Iralu, Lokayukta, members of the High Court Bar Association, members of the registry of the high court, representatives from the Nagaland State Information Commission, Nagaland State Commission for Women, State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, Kohima Bar Association, officers from the Law & Justice Department, judicial officers and advocates from the High Court and District Courts, and representatives from the Kohima District Legal Services Authority.
