NHRC Acting Chairperson Praises CAPFs for Humanitarian Role at 29th Annual Debate Competition
(Judicial Quest News Network)
The Acting Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) India, Vijaya Bharathi Sayani, commended the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) for their pivotal role as first responders in natural disasters. She highlighted their crucial work in providing aid, rescuing civilians, and ensuring access to basic human rights, such as food, shelter, and medical care during emergencies. Their active involvement in rescue operations during calamities reflects their unwavering commitment to humanitarian service.
Sayani was addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest at the final round of the 29th Annual NHRC Debate Competition for the Central Armed Police Forces, organized in collaboration with the Border Security Force (BSF) in New Delhi. The debate, which centered on the topic “Custodial death is not acceptable in any situation,” saw intense participation from young officers demonstrating their profound understanding of human rights.
During her address, Sayani emphasized that the CAPFs often operate in highly challenging environments, where maintaining peace while using minimal force is crucial. She underscored the importance of restraint and adherence to human rights, especially in situations where the misuse of power could lead to allegations against the forces. She firmly stated that custodial deaths are unacceptable, as they represent severe violations of human rights and legal principles.
In the competition, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) claimed the prestigious Rolling Trophy for the best team, triumphing in the final round. A total of 16 participants debated the motion in both Hindi and English. The individual winners included Tina Sangwan, Constable from ITBP, who secured the first prize in Hindi, and Rosela Sangtam, Constable from Assam Rifles, who won the first prize in English. The second-place winners were Rahul Kumar, Sub Inspector, CISF (Hindi), and Akshay Badola, Assistant Commandant, CISF (English). The third prize in Hindi went to Kanha Joshi, Assistant Commandant, CISF, and in English to Bhaskar Chaudhary, Assistant Commandant, CISF. The top three winners were awarded cash prizes of Rs. 12,000, Rs. 10,000, and Rs. 8,000, in addition to certificates and mementos.
The winners were selected by a distinguished jury, including Jyotika Kalra, Former NHRC Member and Chief of Jury, along with Prof. Dr. G. S. Bajpai, Vice Chancellor of NLU Delhi, and Dr. Ish Kumar, Former Director General of Vigilance & Enforcement, Telangana. Kalra praised the high quality of the debate presentations, recognizing the thorough research and depth of understanding displayed by the participants. She encouraged the officers to incorporate the debate presentations into their training programs.
Shri Raja Babu Singh, IG of the BSF, and Ms. Kim, DIG of NHRC, also lauded the participants. Kim specifically applauded the CAPFs for their inclusive approach, which encouraged participation from officers across all ranks. She further thanked the BSF for their invaluable support in organizing the successful debate competition.
