NHRC: complain about a human rights violation
Updated 2026-10 · General information, not legal advice.
The National Human Rights Commission looks into violations of human rights by public servants, or negligence in preventing them. Each state also has a State Human Rights Commission.
What it handles
- Police abuse, custodial violence or illegal detention
- Denial of basic services by a public authority
- Negligence by a public servant that harms life or dignity
How to file
- 1
Write the facts
Name the person or office, the date, the place, and what happened. Attach medical reports or documents.
- 2
File online
File on the NHRC complaint portal. A complaint to a State Commission is also possible.
- 3
Keep the diary number
Use it to track the complaint.
- 4
Know the limit
The Commission generally does not look into events more than one year old.
Key facts
- Free to file
- Generally within one year of the incident
- Emergency: 112. Women in distress: 181
Not sure this is the right place?
Tell us what happened. We show the right steps in the right order and draft the letters.
Common questions
Is this for private disputes?
No. It is for violations by public servants or negligence by public authorities.
Do I need a lawyer?
No, you can file yourself.