New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report alleging that three women journalists were subjected to sexual harassment by Delhi Police personnel during a protest at Jantar Mantar on October 3.
The Commission has issued a notice to the Delhi Police Commissioner and sought a detailed report on the matter within two weeks.
The NHRC said that if the allegations reported in the media are found to be true, they would raise serious issues concerning human rights.
What Did The NHRC Say About The Jantar Mantar Allegations?
The NHRC took cognisance of the reported allegations after a media report highlighted claims of sexual harassment involving three women journalists during the protest.
The Commission has asked the Delhi Police Commissioner to submit a detailed report within two weeks.
The move does not establish the allegations as fact. The claims are currently subject to inquiry by the authorities.
What Happened To The Three Women Journalists?
The three women, who identified themselves as journalists, had complained of alleged manhandling and sexual misconduct by Delhi Police personnel during their detention at the October 3 protest.
Delhi Police said the complaints were received by the New Delhi district police and transferred to the Crime Branch for a fair and impartial inquiry. The women were also medically examined.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Neha Yadav said the complaints were registered and referred to the Crime Branch.
Police have also appealed to people who may have video footage of the alleged incident to share it with investigators.
Why Were The Journalists Detained?
The incident took place during a protest against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and demands for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
According to Delhi Police, prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita were in force in the New Delhi area. Police said protesters were asked to leave but did not comply, after which some were detained.
The three women journalists later complained about their treatment during detention.
What Is The Crime Branch Investigating?
The Crime Branch is examining the allegations made by the three women journalists.
Police officials have indicated that statements and available video evidence will form part of the inquiry. CCTV footage from the protest site is also expected to be examined.
The identities of the police personnel accused in the complaints have not been publicly established in the reports available so far.
What Happened After The Allegations?
The allegations triggered protests outside Parliament Street Police Station, with demonstrators demanding FIRs and action against the police personnel named in the complaints.
The controversy also drew reactions from journalists’ organisations. The Press Club of India criticised the alleged treatment of journalists covering the protests and called for action on the complaints.
Some protesters were subsequently detained during demonstrations demanding action on the journalists’ complaints.
What Happens Next In The NHRC Case?
The immediate next step is the Delhi Police report sought by the NHRC.
The Commission has given the Delhi Police Commissioner two weeks to provide details of the matter. Separately, the Crime Branch inquiry into the complaints by the three journalists is continuing.
The findings of those inquiries will determine whether the allegations are substantiated and what further action, if any, follows.
