The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) stated on Wednesday, that it has taken suo motu cognizance of the reports of media on human rights violations due to the violence in Sandeshkhali, West Bengal.
Citing media reports that in Sandeshkhali, innocent and impoverished women have been harassed and sexually assaulted by the local gang of a politician, and the villagers have been demanding appropriate legal action against the perpetrators,
Notices have been issued to the West Bengal chief secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) by the human rights watchdog and sought reports within four weeks.
NHRC said in a statement, ‘The violence has resulted in leaving home places by the women due to torture and sexual abuse’.
Observing that the current incidents in Sandeshkhali, as reported in many media indicate prima facie violation of human rights, the Commission said: “It becomes important for it to exercise its jurisdiction under Section 12 (a) of the PHR Act, 1993 to preserve, protect and promote human rights, and take suo motu cognizance of the reported incidents of violence.”
West Bengal DGP Rajeev Kumar on Wednesday afternoon arrived in Sandeshkhali to take stock of the situation.
“Considering the seriousness of the matter, the Commission has also considered it fit and proper to appoint its team to find out facts by a spot-enquiry into the incidents of violence of human rights in Sandeshkhali, North 24 Parganas. The team shall be led by a Member of the Commission who shall be assisted by officers of the Commission,” the Commission said.
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