NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION vs STATE OF ARUNACHAL PRADESH

The Supreme Court, in a public interest petition filed by the NHRC under Article 32, addressed the rights of approximately 65,000 Chakma/Hajong tribals under Article 21 of the Constitution. The Court noted the historical context of their settlement in Arunachal Pradesh and the ongoing persecution they faced, including threats of expulsion. The Court emphasized the need for the State to ensure the protection of their rights and directed the authorities to take necessary measures to safeguard the Chakmas' interests, thereby reinforcing the principle of human rights protection under the Constitution.