ZIRO, Apr 28: NHRC Special Monitor for Child Rights and Elderly Citizens, Balkrishan Goel, convened a high-level review meeting with heads of departments (HoDs) in Ziro to assess administrative performance and strengthen grassroots human rights protections.
During the meeting, Goel underscored the significance of the NHRC as an “A-rated” institution by Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), noting that the Commission handles over 1.5 lakh complaints annually, and its recommendations require prompt compliance by all departments.
Aligning with the NHRC’s 2026 thematic focus on Healthy Ageing, he stressed the need to establish geriatric wards in hospitals, set up at least one Child Care Institute (CCI) and an Old Age Home, and ensure integration with the National Policy for Senior Citizens currently under development.
The Special Monitor issued key directives on public safety, including immediate updation of Disaster Management Plans with mandatory mock drills in schools, proper fencing of electrical transformers near educational institutions, and third-party water quality testing at tail-end distribution points. He also flagged the lack of electricity in Anganwadi centres and called for urgent corrective action.
Emphasising accountability, Goel set clear expectations for professional conduct among police and medical personnel. He reiterated that engagement of adolescents aged 14–18 in labour must not interfere with their education and called for enhanced training and awareness on juvenile justice in coordination with the Women and Child Development (WCD) department.
Highlighting institutional support, he referred to the Arunachal Desk in Delhi as a key platform for addressing regional concerns and facilitating coordination.
In his concluding remarks, Goel reaffirmed that the NHRC, through its various verticals and Special Monitors, remains committed to ensuring effective protection of citizens’ rights through robust administrative oversight and coordinated governance. (DIPRO)