The Protection of Human Rights Act of 1993 (TPHRA) also provides a State Human RightsCommission at the state level.SHRC shall inquire into violation of human rights in respect of matters specified in statelist and concurrent list. But if NHRC or any other statutory commission has alreadyinquired then the SHRC doesn’t investigate into it. Objectives and duties are same asNHRC.
It has chairman and two members. Chairman should be retired chief justice of HC and1 member, a serving or retired judge of HC or district judge with 7 years’ experience and 1 member, a person of knowledge or practical experience in field of human rights.Term is 70 yrs of age or 5 years. Once the members cease to occupy office they aren’t eligible for any appointmentunder central or state government. Members are eligible for reappointment subject to age criteria.
Removal is done by president on grounds of bankruptcy, unsound mind, infirmity ofbody or mind, sentenced to imprisonment for a crime, or engages in paid employment. He can also be removed for proved misbehavior or incapacity if SC inquiry finds him
guilty. They can resign by writing to governor.
The commission has the power of a civil court and can take cognizance of cases ifreceived within one year of occurrence. It can recommend compensation to victim, prosecution of accused. But suchrecommendations aren’t binding.It submits special or annual reports to state legislatures along with action taken on theirrecommendations and reasons for non-acceptance of advice.
