4.9. Working of NHRC

The Commission has all powers of a Civil Court. It has its own investigating staff for investigation into complaints of Human Rights violations. It is open to it to utilize services of any officer or investigation agency of the Central Government or any State Government.

The Commission while inquiring into complaints of violations of human rights may call for information or report from the Central Government or any State Government, or any other authority or organization subordinate thereto within such time as may be specified by it.

The Commission is not empowered to inquire into any matter after the expiry of one year from the date on which the act constituting violation of human rights is alleged to have been committed. In other words, it can look into a matter within one year of its occurrence.

The Commission may take any of following steps upon completion of an enquiry:

♤ Where enquiry discloses the Commission of violation of Human Rights or negligence in prevention of violation of Human Rights by a public servant, it may recommend to the concerned Government or authority initiation of proceedings for prosecution or such other function.

♤ It may recommend to the concerned government or authority to make payment of compensation or damages to the victim.

♤ Approach SC or HC concerned for such directions, orders, or writs as the court may deem necessary.

♤ Recommend to the concerned Government or authority for grant of such immediate interim relief to victim or members of his family.