District Human Rights Offices to open across Punjab: Shunty

Ludhiana, May 30, 2026: The Punjab State and Chandigarh (UT) Human Rights Commission has decided to establish district-level offices of its Core Committee within District Administrative Complexes (DACs) across Punjab. To facilitate this, the Commission has requested all Deputy Commissioners in the state to allocate suitable space.
Addressing a public awareness programme on human rights at Alamgir Market, Punjab State and Chandigarh (UT) Human Rights Commission Member and Padma Shri awardee Jitender Singh Shunty stated that Punjab is set to become the first state in the country where the Human Rights Commission will have a functional presence at the district level. This move will enable citizens to seek redressal of their grievances within their respective districts, eliminating the need to travel to Chandigarh.
Shunty emphasized that the protection of human rights is not merely a legal obligation but also a collective social responsibility. He said every individual is entitled to equality, justice and dignity, adding that the Commission's primary objective is to create greater public awareness and ensure the timely resolution of human rights-related complaints. He further stated that the Commission is committed to making its functioning more transparent, accessible and people-centric. Complaints are being addressed promptly and with due sensitivity. Special focus is being placed on safeguarding the rights of women, children, senior citizens, labourers and other vulnerable sections of society.
Urging citizens to report cases of human rights violations, Shunty added complaints can be submitted through WhatsApp at 9855475547 or via the Commission's website. He assured that appropriate action would be initiated within 48 hours of receiving a complaint.
Later, while interacting with the media, Shunty stated the Commission aims to empower citizens by educating them about their rights. Under the "Yudh Nashian Virudh" campaign, he announced that the Commission's team would actively assist in identifying and taking action against major drug traffickers. He also revealed that the Commission has launched a special initiative against fraudulent visa and immigration operators in Punjab. According to him, nearly 450 complaints related to immigration fraud have already been received, many involving substantial financial losses suffered by victims. The Commission is closely examining these cases and taking necessary action.
Highlighting the importance of public awareness, Shunty urged citizens not to remain silent if their grievances are ignored. He advised people to dial 112 if a government official fails to respond to a legitimate complaint.
Among those present on the occasion were Additional Deputy Commissioner Jashanpreet Kaur Gill, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Kuldeep Bawa, Human Rights Core Committee Member Deepak Singla, along with representatives of various social, legal and human rights organisations.