Constitution and function of the State Human Rights Commission in Odisha.

The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) in Odisha is a statutory body established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. It is responsible for the protection and promotion of human rights in the state of Odisha.

The SHRC is headed by a Chairperson, who is a retired judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court. The Chairperson is assisted by a full-time Member and two part-time Members, who are appointed by the Governor of Odisha. The Members of the SHRC are appointed from among persons who have knowledge and experience in the field of human rights.

The main function of the SHRC is to inquire into complaints of human rights violations and take necessary action to remedy the situation. The SHRC has the power to summon and enforce the attendance of witnesses, require the discovery and production of documents, and conduct an inquiry in the same manner as a civil court. The SHRC also has the power to award compensation to victims of human rights violations and to recommend measures to prevent such violations in the future.

In addition to its inquiry function, the SHRC also has the power to advise the state government on matters related to human rights, and to undertake and promote research in the field of human rights. The SHRC also has the power to intervene in any proceeding involving human rights violations that is pending before a court.

The SHRC is independent and autonomous in the discharge of its functions, and is not subject to the direction or control of any other authority. It is accountable only to the people of Odisha and is answerable to the state legislature for its actions.

In order to ensure the effective functioning of the SHRC, the state government is required to provide it with necessary staff, facilities, and resources. The SHRC is also required to submit an annual report to the state government, detailing its activities and the progress made in the protection and promotion of human rights in the state.

In conclusion, the State Human Rights Commission in Odisha is an important statutory body that plays a crucial role in the protection and promotion of human rights in the state. It is an independent and autonomous body that is accountable only to the people of Odisha, and is responsible for inquiring into complaints of human rights violations and taking necessary action to remedy the situation.

It is also empowered to advise the state government on matters related to human rights, and to undertake and promote research in the field.