Pongchau, Feb 25: The Arunachal Pradesh State Human Rights Commission (APSHRC), in collaboration with the Longding district administration, successfully conducted the Day-2 Outreach and Awareness Programme on Human Rights at Pongchau on Wednesday.
The programme aimed to promote awareness on constitutional rights, institutional safeguards and available mechanisms for redressal of human rights grievances.
Delivering the opening remarks, APSHRC Chairperson Bamang Tago emphasized that human rights are rooted in the Constitution of India and are essential for ensuring dignity, justice and equality. He highlighted the mandate of the Commission under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, and reiterated the role of APSHRC is corrective, preventive, and advisory in nature. He stressed that security and human rights must coexist in a democratic society governed by the rule of law.
Research Officer Joel Angu presented a historical overview of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 and elaborated on the Commission’s powers, including inquiry into complaints, inspection of custodial institutions and recommendations for remedial measures.
Advocate Ebo Mili spoke on legal provisions relating to child labour and the Information Technology Act, and explained the landmark guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court in the DK Basu case regarding arrest procedures and police accountability. Advocate Taba Zim, Chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), highlighted the CWC’s role in safeguarding children’s rights, while Advocate Taying Nachup stressed prevention of abuse, substance use and ensuring access to education.
Bamang Kaku, coordinator of Arunachal Citizens Right, spoke on HIV awareness and substance abuse prevention, underlining the need for community participation.
The programme was attended by Phephot Wangsa, ZPM Pongchau, Laitoh (ex-ZPM), Panchayat leaders, GBs, students, officials from various departments and members of the public.
The Commission reiterated that individuals can approach APSHRC with complaints of alleged human rights violations without complex legal procedures or court fees. It encouraged lawful grievance redressal and community dialogue to strengthen trust between citizens, civil administration and security forces.
The gathering also unanimously condemned the recent incident of racial abuse against three girls from Arunachal in the national capital and demanded strict action against the culprits as per law.
Earlier, participants at Lazu and Pongchau signed a pledge reaffirming their commitment to peace, non-violence, constitutional values and opposition to all forms of human rights violations.