NHRC sensitises police personnel, law students

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Friday inaugurated a two-day training programme for police personnel and law students to sensitise them about protection of human rights while discharging their duty.

NHRC Chairperson Justice K.G. Balakrishnan addressed the participants comprising Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers and law students.

The NHRC and the Indian Law Institute jointly organised the programme "Policing and human rights: issues and challenges".

"Most complaints made to the commission related to various acts of omission and commission by police personnel which underlines the importance of their sensitisation towards the protection of human rights," Balakrishnan said.

Referring to the recent changes in the Indian Evidence Act, Criminal Procedure Code and the Indian Penal Code through the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013, Balakrishnan said these have placed more responsibility on police personnel.

"Police personnel need to be updated on a regular basis with the changes in the legislation and procedures. They should not relent due to any undue external pressure while discharging their duties."