What Action is NHRC Taking in the Howrah Minor Assault Case?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- NHRC's intervention highlights serious human rights concerns.
- Victim's condition is critical, prompting urgent medical attention.
- Allegations against local political associates raise questions of accountability.
- Local police's response is under scrutiny for potential negligence.
- Community safety and justice for minors must be prioritized.
New Delhi, Dec 17 (NationPress) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has formally requested a report from the Commissioner of Police in Howrah, West Bengal, regarding the alleged sexual assault and severe violence inflicted on a 13-year-old girl. A bench led by NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo acknowledged a complaint stating that the minor was allegedly abducted to a deserted location on December 7, where she was subjected to an attempted rape and assault by two individuals named in the complaint - Tarun Majhi and Tapas Dhara, who are said to be close associates of a local MLA.
The complainant reported that the child was left bloodied and injured after the incident.
As per the allegations, despite approaching the Howrah Police, the accused continued to intimidate the family. Additionally, the complaint claimed that two days later, the accused and their associates verbally abused and physically assaulted the complainant while allegedly attempting to rape the minor again near their home.
During the assault, the child reportedly suffered serious injuries, including head and chest wounds from an iron rod, and is currently in critical condition and receiving treatment in a hospital.
The complainant further asserted that these attacks are linked to the family’s refusal to succumb to extortion demands concerning a recently acquired land plot, claiming neglect by the local police.
Requesting intervention from the NHRC, the complainant sought the arrest of the accused and protection for her family.
The NHRC, noting that the allegations, if proven true, indicate serious violations of the minor's human rights, instructed the Howrah Police Commissioner to investigate the situation and submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) within two weeks.
The NHRC remarked, “A notice is to be issued to the Commissioner of Police, Howrah, West Bengal, directing an inquiry into the allegations made in the complaint and to present an Action Taken Report within two weeks.”