The Office of the Nagaland State Human Rights Commission (NSHRC) was inaugurated on March 18 by its Chairman, Justice Songkhupchung Serto, who unveiled the plaque and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights display board in the presence of dignitaries.
In his address, Justice Serto thanked Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio for supporting the establishment of the Commission. He noted that although notified earlier, the Commission became functional on March 21, 2023, with the appointment of its Chairman, followed by a Member. It initially operated from Agri Colony before shifting to its present office at the Nagaland Commission Complex, Kohima.
Highlighting its work, Serto said the Commission has visited nine districts to assess healthcare, education, and public distribution systems. It has recommended introducing science streams in institutions, addressing teacher shortages, and improving healthcare infrastructure and staffing.
The Commission has also contributed to developing a legal framework for organ transplantation in the State, with the government working to operationalise it. It has recommended adopting the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act and issued advisories for senior citizen-friendly hospital services.
Further, it has suggested improvements in police lock-ups, especially sanitation, and addressed custodial death cases, recommending compensation in four instances.
A key highlight was the release of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in recognised local languages, placing Nagaland among global efforts to expand accessibility.
The programme included addresses, cultural presentations, and was attended by officials, judicial officers, and representatives from various state institutions.
