NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION, INDIA CHAPTER 4 CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS A.  Terrorism and Militancy 4.1 Today, India is facing a daunting challenge of protecting the human rights of a common man on the face of terrorism. With the grim spectre of terrorism continuing to target innocent and defenceless people, the task of protection of human rights has become all the more challenging. 4.2 A peaceful society rests on the pillars of justice and individual’s accountability. The concern for justice has been of paramount importance, while dealing with the vexed issue of terrorism. In most of the tragedies associated with terrorism, it is mostly the common people, whose rights are violated. 4.3 An increase in the activities of terrorists and Naxalites has made the role of security forces even more demanding. They are increasingly called upon to control civil unrest, to enhance the security at important places and also to control and maintain law and order whenever required. 4.4 The Commission is of the firm view that proper observance of human rights is not a hindrance to the promotion of peace and security. Rather, it is an essential element in any worthwhile strategy to preserve peace and security and to defeat terrorism. The purpose of anti-terrorism measures must, therefore, be to protect democracy, rule of law and human rights, which are fundamental values of our society and the core values of the constitution. 4.5 The Commission from time to time has reiterated that terrorism creates an environment that destroys the right of people to live in freedom from fear. Terrorism’s goal is to destroy the very fabric of democracy and society. India remains an important ally in the global war on terrorism. It has fought against terrorism for more than fifty years and has learnt a great deal from its success and failures. The endeavor of the Commission is to call upon the international community to cooperate in combating terrorism. At the same time, the Commission has always emphasized that in doing so, the approach should be human, rational and secular. B. Custodial Violence and Torture 4.6 Custodial violence and torture is so rampant in this country that it can be seen as embedded in the normal way of life. It represents the worst form of excesses by public servants entrusted with the duty of law enforcement. The Commission regards crimes like rape, molestation, torture, fake encounter in police custody as manifestations of a systemic failure to protect human rights of one of the most vulnerable and voiceless categories of victims. Therefore, the Commission is deeply committed to ensure that such illegal practices are stopped and human dignity is respected in all cases. Besides awarding compensation to the victims or next of their kin, the Commission’s efforts are also geared towards bringing an end to an environment in 34 ANNUAL REPORT 2018-19