Mizoram marked a significant milestone on Wednesday with the formal establishment of its first State Human Rights Commission (SHRC). Governor Vijay Kumar Singh administered the oath of office to the commission’s chairperson and two members during a ceremony held at Raj Bhavan, officially bringing the long-awaited statutory body into existence.
Former Gauhati High Court judge Justice (Retd.) Marli Vankung was sworn in as the inaugural Chairperson of the commission. Retired Mizoram Judicial Service officer Vanlalenmawia and retired IAS officer K. Lal Nghinglova also took the oath as members. The swearing-in ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Lalduhoma, Speaker Lalbiakzama, Leader of the Opposition Lalchhandama Ralte, cabinet ministers and other senior dignitaries.
Justice Vankung brings extensive judicial experience to the role, having served in the Mizoram Judicial Service before her appointment as an additional judge of the Gauhati High Court in 2021. She became a permanent judge in 2023 and retired earlier this year. The two members also have distinguished careers in the judiciary and public administration, strengthening the commission’s expertise in safeguarding human rights.
The State Human Rights Commission was constituted following directions from the Gauhati High Court in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the Zofa Welfare Organisation (ZWO). The formation of the commission is expected to strengthen the protection and promotion of human rights in Mizoram by providing an independent mechanism to address complaints, uphold justice and ensure greater accountability in matters concerning citizens’ rights.
