The Congress party has raised concerns over the selection process for the new Chief of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), labeling it as a “fundamentally flawed” and “pre-determined exercise.” The opposition party has accused the ruling government of undermining the integrity of the selection procedure, alleging that it was biased and lacked transparency.
Key Points of the Allegation:
- Lack of Transparency:
The Congress party claims that the selection process for the NHRC chief was not conducted in an open and transparent manner. They argue that there was no public involvement or clear criteria for choosing the candidate. - Pre-determined Outcome:
The Congress alleges that the outcome of the selection process was pre-determined, suggesting that the government had already decided on the candidate before the official process even began. - Political Influence:
The opposition party has also suggested that the process was influenced by political considerations, with the ruling government favoring a candidate who aligns with its ideological stance. - Undermining the NHRC’s Independence:
One of the major concerns raised is that such a flawed process could undermine the independence of the NHRC, which is supposed to act as a neutral body safeguarding human rights. - Call for Re-evaluation:
Congress has called for a re-evaluation of the selection process, urging that it be conducted in a more transparent and fair manner to ensure the integrity of the NHRC.
Conclusion:
The Congress party’s accusations highlight concerns over the fairness and transparency of the selection process for the NHRC chief. This issue has sparked a debate on the independence of constitutional bodies and the importance of maintaining their credibility.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. What is the Congress party’s main accusation regarding the NHRC chief selection process?
a) It was transparent and fair
b) It was fundamentally flawed and pre-determined
c) It was conducted in a democratic manner
d) It was based on public opinion
Answer: b) It was fundamentally flawed and pre-determined
2. What does Congress claim about the outcome of the NHRC chief selection process?
a) It was based on a public vote
b) The outcome was pre-determined
c) It was fair and unbiased
d) It was influenced by international pressure
Answer: b) The outcome was pre-determined
3. According to Congress, what could be undermined by the flawed selection process?
a) The credibility of the ruling party
b) The independence of the NHRC
c) The transparency of government policies
d) The functioning of the judiciary
Answer: b) The independence of the NHRC
4. What has Congress called for regarding the NHRC chief selection process?
a) Immediate resignation of the NHRC chief
b) Re-evaluation of the selection process
c) Dismissal of the current NHRC chief
d) A public hearing on the issue
Answer: b) Re-evaluation of the selection process
5. What does Congress allege influenced the NHRC chief selection process?
a) Public feedback
b) Political considerations
c) International pressure
d) Legal framework
Answer: b) Political considerations