NHRC Special Rapporteur reviews human rights issues in Leh, stresses stronger protection for vulnerable groups.

NHRC Special Rapporteur reviews human rights issues in Leh, stresses stronger protection for vulnerable groups.
Leh, July 22, 2026: Special Rapporteur of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Smt. Shomita Biswas chaired a debriefing meeting today with senior officials to review key human rights concerns and discuss measures to strengthen the protection and welfare of vulnerable sections of society in the Union Territory of Ladakh.
The meeting was attended by DIG, Ladakh, Kaushal Kumar Sharma; Director, Social & Tribal Welfare Department, Dr Zahida Bano; Director of Health Services, Dr Tashi Thinles, along with other concerned officers from various departments.
During the meeting, Smt. Biswas shared her observations following interactions with district authorities and her two-day visit to Child Care Institutions (CCIs) in Leh district. She appreciated the efforts being made for the care and protection of children while highlighting areas requiring further attention to ensure that institutional care meets human rights standards.
Emphasizing the need for holistic development of children residing in CCIs, she recommended expanding vocational training and skill development opportunities to improve their prospects and facilitate their social and economic rehabilitation. She also stressed the importance of strengthening screening and monitoring mechanisms for women and children in government-run institutions to ensure their safety, wellbeing, and timely access to necessary support services.
Addressing healthcare concerns, the NHRC Special Rapporteur highlighted the importance of regular mental health assessments for prison inmates. She called for stronger coordination between prison authorities and the Health Department to facilitate periodic health screenings and diagnostic check-ups, particularly for inmates aged 40 years and above, ensuring timely medical intervention wherever required.
Smt. Biswas further underscored the need to integrate disaster preparedness and climate resilience into institutional planning, noting that changing climatic conditions necessitate proactive measures to safeguard vulnerable populations during emergencies.
The meeting concluded with a detailed discussion on strengthening inter-departmental coordination for effective implementation of the recommendations. Officials reaffirmed their commitment to improving institutional care, healthcare access, and disaster preparedness while upholding the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of children, women, prison inmates, and other vulnerable groups across the district.