Key Highlights:
- Justice V Ramasubramanian Named NHRC Chair: Former Supreme Court judge appointed as the new chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
- Opposition’s Suggestions: Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi proposed Justice KM Joseph for the role.
- First Modi-Rahul Gandhi Meeting: The panel meeting marked the first encounter between PM Modi and Rahul Gandhi since the latter became Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha.
- Other Names in Contention: Speculation about former Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justice KM Joseph ended with the official announcement.
New Delhi: Former Supreme Court judge Justice V Ramasubramanian has been appointed as the new chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), concluding days of speculation over the role. The decision was finalized during a high-level committee meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which included significant input from opposition leaders.
Panel Discussions and Opposition’s Proposals
Sources reveal that during the meeting, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi recommended Justice KM Joseph for the position. Their suggestion aimed to appoint a candidate they believed had a proven record of upholding human rights and judicial integrity.
The six-member selection panel, responsible for appointing the NHRC chairman, consists of:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah
- Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge
- Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi
- Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh
Speculations Surrounding the Appointment
The announcement follows earlier speculation about other prominent judicial figures. Former Chief Justice DY Chandrachud was briefly considered as a possible appointee, given his extensive experience and progressive rulings during his tenure. However, the final decision favored Justice V Ramasubramanian, bringing an end to conjectures surrounding the position.
Significance of Modi-Rahul Gandhi Interaction
The meeting also marked a political milestone as it was the first time PM Modi and Rahul Gandhi came face-to-face after the latter assumed the role of Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha. This interaction added a layer of political intrigue to the appointment process, with both leaders representing opposing ideologies yet working together in the NHRC’s selection process.
Justice V Ramasubramanian: A Distinguished Career
Justice Ramasubramanian, known for his judicious rulings and extensive experience in constitutional law, is expected to bring a balanced perspective to the NHRC. His appointment aligns with the government’s emphasis on reinforcing the commission’s role in safeguarding human rights across the nation.
Justice V Ramasubramanian’s appointment as NHRC chairman comes at a crucial juncture, with India facing increasing scrutiny on human rights issues. The decision reflects a blend of political consultation and judicial expertise, setting the stage for the NHRC’s future direction under his leadership.
