Protection of Human Rights Act: NHRC Chairperson Criteria

The question asks about the required background for the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) according to the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. Let's break down the eligibility criteria based on the Act.

NHRC Chairperson Eligibility Explained

Section 2(1)(a) of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, outlines the qualifications for the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission. According to the Act:

• The Chairperson must be a person who has been, or is qualified to be, a Judge of the Supreme Court.
• This specifically includes the position of the Chief Justice of India.

Therefore, the correct qualification is having served as or being eligible to be a Chief Justice of India or a Judge of the Supreme Court.

Evaluating Other Options

Let's look at why the other options are not the primary criteria mentioned in the Act:

• Renowned human rights activist: While valuable, this is not the specific judicial qualification required by the Act for the Chairperson role.
• Senior Judge of any High Court: While judges from High Courts are often considered for roles, the Act specifically mentions the Supreme Court level for the Chairperson.
• Judge of the Supreme Court of any other country: The Act focuses on the Indian judicial system for this appointment.

Based on Section 2(1)(a) of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, the most accurate description of the Chairperson's qualification is being a Chief Justice of India or a Judge of the Supreme Court.