Question map
What is the term of office of the Chairperson and Members of the National Human Rights Commission?
Explanation
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is a statutory body established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. Originally, the Act prescribed a tenure of five years for the Chairperson and members [2]. However, the Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2019, significantly modified these terms. According to the amended provisions, the Chairperson and members of the NHRC now hold office for a term of three years or until they attain the age of 70 years, whichever is earlier [1]. They are eligible for reappointment, but after their tenure, they are ineligible for further employment under the Central or State governments [2]. This amendment was intended to align the tenure with other commissions and ensure the availability of experienced personnel. Therefore, the current term of office is 3 years or up to 70 years of age.
Sources
- [2] https://www.mha.gov.in/sites/default/files/Protection%20of%20HR%20Act1993_0.pdf
- [1] Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 57: National Human Rights Commission > COMPOSITION > p. 474