Mizoram has finally established a functional State Human Rights Commission (SHRC), more than three decades after the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 made such a body a legal requirement. The development came after years of administrative delays and a public interest litigation (PIL) that pushed the state government to complete the process.
The initiative began in 2021, when the Zofa Welfare Organization (ZWO), through its President Rev. Robawia, filed a PIL before the Gauhati High Court seeking directions for the establishment of a Human Rights Commission in Mizoram. The petition highlighted that the state had not implemented the requirement despite a 2015 Supreme Court direction asking all states to establish their own commissions.
For several years, the matter progressed slowly, with the state government submitting details of preparatory measures, including staff recruitment plans, budget allocations, and arrangements for office infrastructure. Although the commission was formally constituted by late 2024, it remained non-functional due to the absence of a Chairperson and members.
The Gauhati High Court, expressing concern over the delay, set a final deadline for the government and warned of possible penalties if the commission was not made operational. Following further proceedings, Mizoram appointed a Chairperson and two members, allowing the long-pending institution to begin functioning.
The establishment of the SHRC is expected to strengthen human rights protection mechanisms in the state and provide citizens with a dedicated platform to address complaints related to human rights violations.
