Shimla, March 5 (IANS): Expressing displeasure over the sluggish approach of authorities in setting up the state human rights commission, Lokayukta, and human rights courts, the Himachal Pradesh High Court on Thursday directed the Chief Secretary to be present in the court on March 12, the next date of hearing.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice L. Narayana Swamy and Justice Jyotsna Rewal Dua passed the order on a petition of Namita Maniktala, who sought directions to the state to constitute the human rights commission.

During the hearing, the Additional Advocate General sought further time to obtain instructions from authorities concerned.

The bench observed that from the perusal of records, it was found that the state was seeking adjournments time and again on one pretext or the other.

"Human rights are very precious and immediate steps are required to constitute the state human rights commission, Lokayukta, and the human rights courts. Despite Supreme Court directions, the state government has failed to take necessary steps," the High Court observed.

The court said that on the last date of hearing the state had sought time to place on record instructions in respect of the appointment of Lokayukta. Even on Thursday a similar prayer was being made, the court pointed out.

It granted a week's time to the state to make submissions.