New Delhi, April 12 (NationPress) Priyank Kanoongo, a member of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), expressed grave concerns on Sunday regarding various issues, including an FIR against social media users, an allegedly underage marriage, and potential child trafficking. He affirmed that the NHRC will take necessary actions in all instances.

In a conversation with IANS, Kanoongo highlighted that the Commission is aware of reports suggesting that certain social media users had disseminated details about the spending of the Member of Parliament Local Area Development (MPLAD) fund by Amethi MP Kishori Lal Sharma.

He pointed out that the MPLAD scheme is a fund allocated by the Union government to Members of Parliament for development initiatives within their constituencies, with all expenditure records accessible on a centralized public platform.

"Based on these official records, some young individuals shared information in the public domain alleging that the Amethi MP had not appropriately utilized the funds. Consequently, an FIR has been lodged against these citizens," Kanoongo remarked.

He described this action as alarming, emphasizing that in a democratic society, citizens possess the right to hold their elected representatives accountable.

"If funds are unspent and individuals are bringing this to light, the message should be acknowledged, and development efforts should be initiated. Filing FIRs against citizens seems like an attempt to stifle freedom of speech. We will certainly address this issue," the NHRC member added.

On a different matter, Kanoongo mentioned reports regarding the marriage of social media figure Monalisa Bhosle, who gained notoriety during the Kumbh Mela 2025.

He indicated that the Commission has received information raising concerns that the girl, from a tribal Hindu family, might be a minor.

"Last year, when she was 16, it is implausible for her to have reached adulthood in such a brief period. Reports suggest that a Muslim man from Kerala married her, with indications of involvement from certain political figures," Kanoongo elaborated.

"Should it be determined that Monalisa Bhosle is indeed a minor, stringent legal measures will be enacted. In the upcoming week, we will ensure that those accountable face justice," he asserted.

In a separate incident, Kanoongo brought attention to a suspected child trafficking case involving over 100 children allegedly being transported from Bihar via the Patna–Pune Express train.

"We have received reports indicating that these children were being taken to another state under the guise of receiving education in madrasas. Acting swiftly, we alerted the relevant police authorities in Madhya Pradesh, who promptly took action," he stated.

Preliminary reports indicate that more than 100 children have been rescued by law enforcement.

Kanoongo reaffirmed that the NHRC is diligently monitoring all these cases and will ensure that essential legal and institutional actions are undertaken to safeguard human rights and uphold the rule of law.