NHRC Issues 5 Strong Directives Over Shocking Misuse of Its Name by NGOs

New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of the alleged misuse of its name by certain non-governmental organisations (NGOs) across the country, directing States and Union Territories to identify and initiate legal action against entities operating under deceptively similar names.

Deceptive registration raises concern(NHRC)

While examining complaints of human rights violations, the Commission observed that several NGOs have registered themselves under names closely resembling that of the NHRC, potentially misleading the public.

In a recent instance, an NGO named “National Human Rights Council (NHRC)” was reportedly registered with the Government of NCT of Delhi in 2022. The organisation’s publicity materials allegedly claim registration with institutions such as NITI Aayog, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, besides mentioning association with an Andhra Pradesh-based human rights body.

A visiting card linked to the organisation reportedly bears the designation “Venkatesh, State Chairman, Karnataka”.

‘Chairman’ title and name termed misleading

The Commission observed that adopting a name and designation such as “Chairman” creates confusion and gives an impression that the NGO is either part of or officially recognised by the NHRC.

It noted that such deceptive nomenclature may mislead the public into believing these organisations have statutory authority to deal with human rights matters.

Risks to public trust and funds

The NHRC expressed concern that continuation of such misleading names could:

Erode public trust
Result in misuse of mandate
Lead to possible misappropriation of funds
Create confusion among public authorities

The Commission emphasised the distinction between a statutory body like the NHRC and private NGOs.

Nationwide notices to States, UTs

Taking the matter seriously, the NHRC has issued notices to the Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police of all States and Union Territories, directing them to:

Identify NGOs or individuals misusing the Commission’s name
Initiate immediate legal action
Cancel registrations obtained in violation of norms
Sensitise registering authorities to remain vigilant

Reports on the action taken have been sought within two weeks.

Specific directions in Delhi, Karnataka

In the specific case of the “National Human Rights Council (NHRC)”, further notices have been issued to the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, Karnataka, and the Chief Secretary and Commissioner of Police, Delhi.

They have been directed to submit detailed reports within two weeks regarding action taken against the NGO, which is reportedly registered in Delhi and operating from Karnataka.

The Commission had earlier cautioned authorities about misuse of its name and logo. However, it noted that such violations continue to surface, prompting the present action.