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.
Inquire into complaints of human rights violations by State officials; review constitutional safeguards; and recommend remedial measures to the Government.
A Himachal Pradesh where every individual lives with dignity, equality, and freedom — free from fear, oppression, and discrimination.
To serve as an accessible, impartial forum for the protection of human rights and recommend systemic reforms that strengthen the rule of law.
HPHRC constituted under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. Justice P. C. Balakrishna Menon sworn in as the first Chairperson.
Four Chairpersons led the Commission, establishing procedures and handling human rights complaints across Himachal Pradesh.
Commission remained non-functional for nearly 15 years due to absence of appointments.
Commission resumed full operations. New Chairperson and Members appointed; case intake and hearings restarted.
HPHRC actively receives complaints, conducts inquiries, and now offers an online portal for easy access by all citizens.
The primary legislation under which HPHRC is constituted and derives its powers, jurisdiction, and procedures.
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.
Inquires into complaints against State Government departments, local bodies, and officials. Complaints against Central Government forces are referred to NHRC.
Minister House No. 3, Grant Lodge, Shimla – 171 002, HP
+91 177 262 7202
hphrc-shi(at)hp.gov.in