Who We Are

Himachal Pradesh Human Rights Commission

The Himachal Pradesh Human Rights Commission (HPHRC) is the principal State institution established to promote and protect human rights across Himachal Pradesh. It was constituted on 8 March 1995 under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 (as amended in 2019).

HPHRC serves as an independent quasi-judicial body that investigates complaints of human rights violations committed by State Government officials and agencies, and recommends appropriate remedies to the Government.

The Commission resumed full operations on 2 July 2020 after a period of inactivity and has since worked to uphold the values of justice, equality, dignity, and fundamental freedoms for every citizen of Himachal Pradesh.

1995
Year Established
30+
Years of Service
1
Chairperson
2
Members

Mandate & Core Values

What we stand for
Mandate

Inquire into complaints of human rights violations by State officials; review constitutional safeguards; and recommend remedial measures to the Government.

Vision

A Himachal Pradesh where every individual lives with dignity, equality, and freedom — free from fear, oppression, and discrimination.

Mission

To serve as an accessible, impartial forum for the protection of human rights and recommend systemic reforms that strengthen the rule of law.

Our History

Key milestones of the Commission
  • 8 March 1995

    HPHRC constituted under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. Justice P. C. Balakrishna Menon sworn in as the first Chairperson.

  • 1995 – 2005

    Four Chairpersons led the Commission, establishing procedures and handling human rights complaints across Himachal Pradesh.

  • 15 July 2005 – 1 July 2020

    Commission remained non-functional for nearly 15 years due to absence of appointments.

  • 2 July 2020

    Commission resumed full operations. New Chairperson and Members appointed; case intake and hearings restarted.

  • 2020 – Present

    HPHRC actively receives complaints, conducts inquiries, and now offers an online portal for easy access by all citizens.

Legal Framework

Governing laws and jurisdiction
Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 (amended 2019)

The primary legislation under which HPHRC is constituted and derives its powers, jurisdiction, and procedures.

Section 2(1)(d) — Definition of Human Rights

Rights relating to life, liberty, equality, and dignity of the individual, guaranteed by the Constitution or embodied in international covenants and enforceable by courts in India.

Jurisdiction

Inquires into complaints against State Government departments, local bodies, and officials. Complaints against Central Government forces are referred to NHRC.

Contact

Minister House No. 3, Grant Lodge, Shimla – 171 002, HP
+91 177 262 7202   hphrc-shi(at)hp.gov.in