NHRC Warns Against NGOs Misusing Its Name, Orders Nationwide Crackdown

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognizance of a growing number of complaints alleging that several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) across the country are registering themselves under names deceptively similar to the statutory human rights body, misleading the public and potentially undermining trust in the Commission's mandate.

The NHRC said it has observed an alarming pattern while examining human rights complaints received from individuals and civil society groups: multiple organisations have adopted confusingly similar titles to that of the Commission, creating the false impression of official authority.

NGO Using "NHRC" Name Sparks Immediate Action

In a recent case, the Commission came across an NGO registered as "National Human Rights Council (NHRC)", reportedly registered with the Government of NCT of Delhi in 2022.

According to NHRC, the organisation's publicity material includes misleading claims such as:

• "Registered by Govt. of NITI Aayog"

• "Registered by Ministry of Corporate Affairs, India"

• "Registered under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India"

• Association with "Andhra Pradesh Human Rights Council Association"

The Commission also noted that a visiting card linked to the organisation bore the designation:

"Venkatesh, State Chairman, Karnataka."

NHRC observed that the adoption of such titles and designations is deceptive and creates public confusion.

"Misleading and Creates Confusion"

The Commission stated that the use of names resembling NHRC and titles such as "Chairman" falsely suggest that these entities are either part of the National Human Rights Commission or authorised by it.

"The name adopted and the designation 'Chairman' is misleading and creates confusion," the NHRC said.

It warned that such deceptive nomenclature may:

• Erode public trust in the statutory institution

• Lead to misuse of the human rights mandate

• Enable misappropriation of funds

• Confuse public authorities in distinguishing between NGOs and constitutional/statutory bodies

NHRC Issues Nationwide Notices to States and UTs

Given the seriousness of the matter, NHRC has issued notices to the Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police of all States and Union Territories, directing them to:

• Identify NGOs or individuals misusing the NHRC name or similar titles

• Take immediate legal action within two weeks

• Cancel registrations obtained in violation of norms

• Sensitise registering authorities to remain vigilant against such misuse

The Commission noted that it has previously raised concerns about misuse of its name and logo, but such violations continue.

Karnataka and Delhi Asked for Reports Within Two Weeks

In the specific case of the "National Human Rights Council (NHRC)," the Commission has issued further directions to:

• Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, Karnataka

• Chief Secretary and Commissioner of Police, Delhi

They have been instructed to submit detailed reports within two weeks on action taken against the NGO, which is registered in Delhi and reportedly operates an office in Karnataka.

Protecting the Integrity of Human Rights Institutions

The NHRC said the continued misuse of its name risks damaging the credibility of India's statutory human rights framework and could mislead vulnerable citizens seeking justice and protection.

The Commission's latest intervention signals a firm move to safeguard institutional integrity and prevent fraudulent organisations from exploiting the authority associated with the NHRC name.