CHAPTER 2 2.1 For the Commission, the protection and promotion of human rights means protecting democracy itself, a democracy that is inclusive in character and caring in respect of its citizens. The Commission has never hesitated in drawing the attention of the State and its agencies to those acts of commission, omission, abetment or negligence which result or may result in violation of human rights. In approaching diverse human rights concerns, including vexed issues such as the protection of human rights in the face of terrorism, the Commission has always been guided by the principles laid down in the Constitution which, in its Preamble, has inter alia propounded two core values that must always be protected and advanced: the life, liberty and dignity of the individual, and the unity and integrity of the nation. There is, in fact, no incompatibility between the two; instead, they reinforce each other. A strong nation requires, as a sine qua non, the strong protection of human rights of its citizens. To act otherwise, is to injure both. 2.2 In fact, if the social, political and economic strength of the nation is to be assured and its unity and peace is to be guaranteed, it is essential to ensure the protection of human rights including dignity of all especially those who are vulnerable and marginalized. This is a precondition for good governance. Protection of human rights and good governance are two sides of the same coin. This is the prime reason that has propelled the Commission to give focused attention to economic, social and cultural rights, especially of vulnerable sections, namely, women, children, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, minorities, disabled and those living in penury, including displaced persons. It is for this segment of the population that doors of opportunity must be widely opened so that their basic rights, such as the right to education, health, food, nutrition, shelter and sanitation, etc., are ensured. 2.3 The ensuing paragraphs give an overview of the activities of the Commission during the period April 2007 to March 2008. New Chairperson 2.4 Justice Shri S. Rajendra Babu assumed office as the fifth Chairperson of the Commission on 2 April 2007. He succeeded Dr. Justice A.S. Anand who demitted office on 31 October 2006. National Human Rights Commission 5