Modi slams 'selective' viewing of human rights violations

INDIAN prime minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (12) took an indirect dig at the opposition saying human rights are violated when an incident is seen through “political spectacles” and this “selective behaviour” is harmful for democracy.

Modi, who was speaking at the 28th foundation-day event of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India, said, “Some people see human rights violations in some incidents but not in other similar incidents. Human rights are violated when viewed via political spectacles. Selective behaviour is harmful to democracy. They attempt to harm the nation’s image through their selective behaviour.”

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He added, “Human rights should not be only about rights, but also duties. The two should be discussed together, not separately. Other than awareness of their rights, each individual must abide by their duties.”

The event was also attended by Indian home minister Amit Shah and NHRC chairperson Arun Kumar Mishra, a former judge of India’s Supreme Court.

Modi said earlier that the NHRC plays an important role in protecting human rights and the dignity of the marginalised. As per a release from the prime minister’s office, the body was set up on October 12 under the Protection of Human Rights Act 1993 for the promotion and protection of human rights.

The commission takes cognisance of any form of human rights infringements, carries out enquiries and in cases of violation of human rights, recommends to public authorities for payment of compensation to the victims apart from remedial and legal measures against public servants at fault.