Foreword Jus ce Mr. Arun Mishra Hon'ble Chairperson, NHRC The Na onal Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India is pleased to present its Thir eth Annual Report for the period st st from 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023. 2. Under the Protec on of Human Rights Act (PHRA) 1993, the Na onal Human Rights Commission was established as an independent statutory body with a mandate to preserve and protect human rights. As we reflect on the NHRC's journey since its incep on, we are reminded of its cri cal role in promo ng and safeguarding human rights throughout the country. Over the years, the Commission has worked relessly and carried out mul farious ac vi es, from establishing a bridge between the State's obliga ons and individuals' rights, to staunchly promo ng and defending human rights. The Commission has played a vital role in upholding human rights, inves ga ng complaints of human rights abuses, monitoring the implementa on of human rights laws, and sugges ng recommenda ons to ensure the protec on of human rights. 3. In these three decades, the Commission has underscored the importance of upholding the fundamental rights of individuals, including the right to life, liberty, equality, and dignity. This emphasis extends especially to marginalized social groups, aligning with the guarantees laid out in the Indian Cons tu on and the principles enshrined in interna onal covenants. These rights are not merely aspira onal but are legally enforceable by the courts in India, serving as essen al pillars of equality and jus ce within the na on's legal framework 4. India, home to 1.43 billion people and rich civiliza onal ethos reflects a deeply ingrained culture that embodies the ideals of equality, liberty, jus ce, and fraternity. Compassion and empathy for all beings are fundamental to life and the Indian culture carries a rich historical legacy of democra c principles that predates Western influences. The NHRC has strived to me culously protect and promote human rights across India, provide solace to the aggrieved and vulnerable, and address significant issues pertaining to human rights. 5. In addi on to its complaint redressal mechanism, the Commission works in tandem with key stakeholders, such as the judiciary, police personnel, media, representa ves, NGOs and civil socie es, academicians and researchers. The Commission considers it vital to promote the educa on and awareness of human rights among the youth and the masses and in this regard, also conducts training programmes for students and police personnel on the importance of safeguarding human rights of all. vii