K’taka HC Seeks State Govt Response On Plea To Fill Vacancies In SHRC

The Karnataka High Court recently issued notice to the State government regarding a plea urging the filling of vacancies for the chairperson and members of the Karnataka State Human Rights Commission.

The Court directed the Chief Secretary, Secretary of the Law Department, and the Human Rights Commission to submit objections, if any.

Furthermore, it directed the authorities to take necessary action to fill the vacant positions.

A division bench of Chief Justice Prasanna Balachandra Varale and Justice MGS Kamal heard a public interest litigation (PIL) petition filed by lawyer Sudha Katwa.

The petition sought the effective implementation of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. This Act aims to safeguard and promote human rights, establish a mechanism to address complaints related to human rights violations, and facilitate easier access to justice for victims.

Advocate S Umapathy, appearing on behalf of the petitioner, informed the bench that the State government had not taken any steps to fill the long-pending vacancies for the positions of the chairman and members of the State Human Rights Commission.

These posts have remained vacant for several months, causing difficulties for individuals from distant towns in lodging complaints regarding their threatened rights.

The Court was apprised that former Chairman of the Commission, retired Justice DH Vaghela, passed away on March 10, 2023. Additionally, the term of Commission Member KB Changappa expired on February 17, 2023, and another Member, RK Dutta, passed away on February 24, 2023.

The petitioner also highlighted that on March 24, 2023, she had submitted a request to the government for the appointment of a Chairman and Members to the Commission. However, no action was taken by the government, prompting her to seek relief from the High Court.

The matter is scheduled to be heard again on 6^th July, 2023.