Chairperson of Nagaland State Human Rights Commission (NSHRC), Justice Songkhupchung Serto (Rdt) stated that human greed and selfishness are the root cause of conflict in any society, and there is no peace without human respect and no development without peace. He was addressing the students and the faculty members of Wangkhao Government College, Mon during an awareness program on “Human Rights and the Role of Human Rights Commission in its Better Protection” on 19th November 2025. The program was organised by the Nagaland State Human Rights Commission (NSHRC) in collaboration with Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), Wangkhao Government College, Mon.
Speaking on the historical roots of human rights, Justice Serto explained that the modern human rights movement emerged in response to the atrocities of the First and Second World Wars. These global tragedies led nations across the world to recognise the urgent need to safeguard human dignity and to codify universal rights. He asserted that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is the profound influence on shaping human civilization, which guarantees equality, freedom, justice, and protection of life and liberty.
He also explained the functioning and powers of Human Rights Commissions, noting that they play a crucial role in ensuring accountability whenever rights are violated by any authority, including the government. He emphasised that when a government authority violates an individual’s rights, the Commission can intervene, recommend strict action, and ensure relief for the victim. He urged the gathering to become ambassadors of human rights, reminding them that the responsibility to safeguard dignity and justice lies not only with institutions but with every citizen. Later, Justice Serto also explained the Logo of the Commission and its significance and reminded that the commission is to protect human rights.
He extended his gratitude to the college authority and the students for their participation. Justice Serto also encouraged the students to study well by saying that Education and Knowledge are Power, and he reminded the students of B.R Ambedkar’s quote, “Be Educated, Be Organised and Be Agitated”.
R Nzanbemo Lotha, Member of NSHRC, introduced the Nagaland State Human Rights Commission and explained what Human Rights are all about. Later, Lotha presented an overview of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, explaining that the Act defines human rights as the rights relating to life, liberty, equality, and dignity guaranteed by the Constitution or international covenants.
He elaborated on the structure and functioning of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and State Human Rights Commissions (SHRCs), drawing attention to their powers under Section 13, which include summoning witnesses, receiving evidence, requisitioning documents, and conducting inquiries with powers equivalent to a civil court. He also discussed the authority of the Commission to inquire into violations and to recommend prosecution, disciplinary action, or compensation wherever necessary.
The programme was chaired by Honjem Konyak, Asst. Professor, Coordinator, IQAC. Special Number was presented by Lanupokyim and vote of thanks was delivered by Dokingla Asst. Professor & Secretary, IQAC.
Later, the NSHRC team visited Government High School & PHC of Phomching, and Government Middle School & PHC of Longwa.
(M. Pelih, IA Mon)
