Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar, Chairperson of the Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC), presided over a meeting of the Commission’s Board to review institutional performance and approve key strategic measures aimed at strengthening the protection and promotion of human rights across Sindh.
The meeting was attended by Ahmed Luqman Memon, District and Session Judge (retd)/ Judicial Member-I SHRC; Iqbal Hussain Maitlo, District and Session Judge (retd)/ Judicial Member-II SHRC; and Anand Ram D Sairani District and Session Judge (retd)/ Judicial Member-III SHRC.
The Board emphasized improving public access to the Commission by strengthening complaint mechanisms through the SHRC online portal, email, and WhatsApp services. It was also discussed to review the function of Commission regional office in Sukkur to enhance outreach, particularly for marginalized and underserved communities.
The chairperson stressed the importance of providing practical policy recommendations to the Government of Sindh on human rights issues and ensuring greater institutional focus on peripheral districts. Members also deliberated on the preparation of a comprehensive Strategic Plan and the periodic review of constitutional and legal provisions related to human rights protection.
To strengthen public engagement, the Board resolved to enhance the Commission’s public awareness and communication initiatives.
Ms Tehseen Fatima will lead efforts to improve outreach, institutional visibility, and public engagement. The Judicial Members were also assigned to review the Rules of Business, 2013, of the Sindh Protection of Human Rights Act, 2011, and submit recommendations aimed at strengthening the Commission’s governance, legal framework, and institutional efficiency.
The meeting further discussed enhancing coordination with the Bar associations, workers’ organizations, civil society, and NGOs, and improving data management, staff training, and institutional capacity. Members also emphasized the need for regular field visits, greater attention to issues such as forced conversions, and expanding awareness efforts in Sukkur division where complaint numbers remain low.
The chairperson reaffirmed SHRC’s commitment to protecting the fundamental rights of all citizens and directed the implementation of the Board’s decisions to strengthen institutional responsiveness, improve public access to justice, and enhance human rights protection across Sindh.
Following the Board meeting, Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar Chairperson SHRC met with the Commission’s staff to discuss institutional priorities, strengthen internal coordination, and emphasize teamwork, professionalism, and proactive implementation of the Commission’s mandate.