Journalism and Advancing Human Rights: Suo Motu Cases in India

Journalism plays a pivotal role in advancing human rights. Newspapers and media not only make citizens aware of human rights, they are also key in reporting incidents of violation of these rights. In India, this journalistic responsibility is heightened manifold with the suo motu cognizance afforded through the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Applying suo motu, the NHRC issues orders and acts without being petitioned. As such, newspapers and media in India have the capacity to not just increase public awareness but also lead to direct remedial action. In this paper, NHRC suo motu cases registered in the study period of five months from April 2024 to August 2024 are examined. This includes a total of 65 eligible cases, of which 60% stem from 7 newspapers and 40% from 21 additional newspapers. Nearly three-quarters - 48 of the 65 - cases are reported from 7 states. The cases cover hazardous and illegal employment, rape and sexual offences, medical issues, negligence and mismanagement by authorities, police mistreatment, and other incidents. Four illustrative cases of deaths filed within the NHRC suo motu cognizance are presented in detail, reflecting the nature and content of grievances of human rights violations in India. These include sewer deaths, suicide due to police harassment, a police custody death, and death by electrocution. By understanding suo motu cases in the human rights context in India, journalists can gain perspective on their role in advancing the dignity of our society.