PONGCHAU, Feb 25: A two-day Outreach and Awareness Programme on Human Rights was held at Pongchau in Longding District today conducted by the Arunachal Pradesh State Human Rights Commission (APSHRC) in collaboration with Longding District Administration. The programme was organized with the objective of promoting awareness about constitutional rights, institutional safeguards, and the mechanisms available for redressal of human rights grievances.
Delivering the opening remarks, Bamang Tago, Chairperson, APSHRC, emphasized that human rights are rooted in the Constitution of India and are essential to ensuring dignity, justice, and equality for all citizens. He highlighted the mandate of the Commission under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, and reiterated that the role of APSHRC is corrective, preventive, and advisory in nature. He stressed that awareness is the first step towards protection and that security and human rights must coexist in a democratic society governed by the rule of law.
Joel Angu, Research Officer, APSHRC, presented a brief historical background of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, and elaborated on the powers and functions of the Commission, including inquiry into complaints, inspection of custodial institutions, and recommendations for remedial measures.
Advocate Ebo Mili, Human Rights Activist, spoke on the legal provisions relating to child labour and the Information Technology Act, highlighting the legal consequences of violations and the need for vigilance in protecting children from exploitation, cyber misuse, and abuse. He also explained in detail the landmark guidelines laid down in the D.K. Basu case concerning the duties of police officers while making arrests, reinforcing the importance of procedural safeguards and accountability in law enforcement.
Advocate Taba Zim, Chairperson, Child Welfare Committee (CWC), addressed the gathering on the role of the Child Welfare Committee in safeguarding the rights of children, while Advocate Taying Nachup spoke on protecting children’s rights by preventing abuse, substance use, and ensuring access to education.
Bamang Kaku, Coordinator, Arunachal Citizens Right, delivered a presentation on awareness related to HIV and substance abuse, underscoring the importance of community participation in prevention and rehabilitation efforts.  
The APSHRC reiterated that individuals may approach the Commission with complaints of alleged human rights violations without the need for complex legal procedures or court fees. The Commission encouraged community-based dialogue, lawful grievance redressal mechanisms, and enhanced awareness to strengthen trust between citizens, civil administration, and security forces.
Meanwhile, in both the camps – at Lazu and Pongchau – everyone present signed a pledge reiterating their faith in the nation’s tradition of non-violence, tolerance, and constitutional values and unwavering commitment to oppose all forms of human rights violations, terrorism and violence.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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