Functions

The NHRC deals with the following human rights guaranteed by the Constitution
of Mauritius:

(i)	the right to life;
(ii)	the right to personal liberty;
(iii)	the right to protection from slavery and forced labour;
(iv)	the right to protection from inhuman treatment;
(v)	the right to protection from deprivation of property;
(vi)	the right to privacy of home and other property;
(vii)	the right to secure protection of the law;
(viii)	the right to freedom of conscience;
(ix)	the right to freedom of expression;
(x)	the right to freedom of assembly and association;
(xi)	the right to freedom to establish schools;
(xii)	the right to protection from discrimination.

What the NHRC does

It enquires into written complaints made

(i)	by any person who feels that any of the human rights mentioned above has been violated or is likely to be violated by the act or omission of a public officer or employee of a public body;
(ii)	by any person against an act or omission of a member of the police force.

The NHRC visits police stations, prisons and other places of detention. It organises and participates in educational and awareness campaigns for the protection and promotion of human rights. It also reviews the safeguards provided by various laws for the protection of human rights as well as review the factors or difficulties that inhibit the enjoyment of such rights.

Public body means -

(a) a Ministry or Government department;
(b) a local authority;
(c) a parastatal body;
(d) a company where Government by holding shares or otherwise is able to influence that company's policy or decisions.