UPSC Prelims Practice Questions — NHRC notice over alleged exploitation, forced religious conversion of women at gyms

Q1. In the context of the NHRC's February 2026 action on alleged exploitation at gyms, the term 'suo motu cognisance' as exercised by the Commission most precisely refers to:

  • A. Action initiated by the Commission on its own motion on the basis of information received, without requiring a formal petition by the aggrieved party.
  • B. Action that the Commission can take only after the matter has been referred to it by the Supreme Court or a High Court.
  • C. Action initiated solely upon a written complaint signed by the victim and supported by an affidavit.
  • D. Action taken at the direction of the Central Government under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.

Q2. After the Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2019, how many full-time Members (excluding the Chairperson and ex-officio Members) does the National Human Rights Commission consist of?

  • A. Three
  • B. Four
  • C. Five
  • D. Six

Q3. The powers of the National Human Rights Commission to summon witnesses, require discovery and production of documents and requisition public records — exercised while taking up matters such as the February 2026 gym exploitation case — are specifically conferred by which one of the following?

  • A. Article 32 of the Constitution of India
  • B. Section 13 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993
  • C. Section 14 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act, 1952
  • D. Section 30 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908

Q4. Prior to the Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2019, the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission could be appointed only from among persons who had held which one of the following highest offices?

  • A. Chief Justice of India
  • B. Judge of the Supreme Court of India
  • C. Chief Justice of a High Court
  • D. Attorney General for India