The NHRC (National Human Rights Commission) issued a notice to the West Bengal government over alleged unabated human rights violations due to violence in Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district. Taking suo-motu cognizance of reports over the incident, the commission has asked the State Chief Secretary and Director General of Police to send reports within four weeks over the violence and the action taken against the perpetrators of the crime. It has asked them to include in their reports, the safety measures taken to inspire confidence among the locals including women as well as compensation, if any, paid to the victims of violence.
Citing media reports, the NHRC said innocent women have been harassed and sexually assaulted by a group of local people protected by a political leader in the area, and this has resulted in protests by villagers. The Commission also decided to depute its team to ascertain facts by a spot inquiry into the incidents of violence of human rights in Sandeshkhali.
