NHRC to hold grievance redressal sessions in remote areas: Justice BR Sarangi 

By Subrat Sarangi

Bhubaneswar, Feb. 28: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is committed to addressing the grievances of common people who see the commission as a beacon of hope for justice. In a significant move, the NHRC has decided to conduct grievance redressal hearings in remote parts of the country, ensuring that justice reaches the doorsteps of those in need. This was announced by Justice Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi during an interaction with victims of injustice and human rights defenders at the Odisha Human Rights Conclave 2025 on Thursday. 

Justice Sarangi emphasised the harmonious relationship between law and humanity, stating, “If you carry both law and humanity in your hands, the latter always weighs more. In the judiciary, humanity is often respected and honored.” He highlighted the Indian judiciary’s consistent efforts to uphold human rights, especially when they are under threat. 

A former Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court and Acting Chief Justice of the High Court of Orissa, Justice Sarangi underscored the NHRC’s mission to build public confidence in the effectiveness of the national rights body. 

Former Chairperson of the Odisha State Commission for Women, Lopamudra Mohanty, praised the NHRC’s role as a beacon of hope for underprivileged individuals who cannot afford legal representation. 

Manoj Jena, Chairman of the Human Rights Foundation and organizer of the conclave, brought several instances of human rights violations to Justice Sarangi’s attention, seeking his intervention. In response, Justice Sarangi assured that the grievances would be addressed promptly. 

The conclave also saw insightful contributions from senior journalists Rabi Das and AK Sahoo, legal experts Rajib Kumar Pattanayak and Manisha Das Pattnaik, and social activists Kalpataru Khuntia, Bikash Das, Seshadeb Nanda, Rina Routray and Basudev Bhatt. They highlighted various aspects of human rights violations and urged the NHRC to take necessary actions. 

This initiative by the NHRC marks a proactive step towards safeguarding human rights and ensuring justice for the marginalized and vulnerable sections of society.