Event Summary
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India organized a two‑day Camp Sitting in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from 21st to 22nd July 2025, aimed at addressing pending complaints of alleged human rights violations in the state.
A variety of serious cases were addressed, including attacks on journalists and human rights defenders, crimes against women and children, fatalities due to snakebites amid medical neglect, flooding affecting families in coastal districts, allegations of witchcraft‑related violations, and trafficking of young girls during the COVID‑19 period. State authorities and complainants were requested to be present to enable on‑the‑spot resolution and deliberation.
After the hearings, the Commission met with the Chief Secretary, Director General of the Police, and other senior state officials to discuss strategies for protecting and promoting human rights. On 22 July 2025, NHRC representatives engaged with civil society organisations, NGOs and human rights defenders, followed by a media briefing on the outcomes of the sitting.
This initiative aimed not only at expediting the hearing of pending human rights cases but also at reinforcing the role of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and human rights defenders in the broader ecosystem of rights protection. Odisha, with its diverse socio-economic challenges—including vulnerable tribal populations, instances of gender-based violence, trafficking, displacement, and climate-related risks—requires a robust civil society to advocate for justice and equity. Recognizing this, the NHRC’s Camp Sitting included structured engagement with CSOs to understand field realities, challenges faced in advocacy, and policy gaps. The Commission emphasized the importance of creating an enabling environment for CSOs by promoting transparency, access to justice, and responsive governance.
The event also served as a platform for CSOs to raise concerns related to legal barriers, administrative restrictions, and safety risks faced by human rights defenders. Through interaction with senior government officials, the NHRC sought to foster collaborative approaches that respect the independence of civil society while ensuring accountability. This outreach marks a progressive step toward strengthening civic space in India. Through this practice, the NHRC reinforced state accountability and institutional responsiveness. The event also validated the role of CSOs by including them in structured dialogues and consultations, thus enhancing their legitimacy in policy advocacy and community engagement.