New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Commissioner of Police, Kolkata, regarding the alleged use of excessive and brutal force on protesters during the “Nabanna Abhijan” rally on August 27, 2023. The demonstration was organized by students demanding justice for the victim in the RG Kar Medical College rape-murder case.
NHRC Seeks Action Taken Report
The NHRC has requested an action taken report from the Kolkata Police commissioner within two weeks of issuing the notice on Thursday. The notice follows a complaint lodged by O P Vyas, a representative of the Bharatiya Human Rights Initiative (BHIM), who detailed the events and accused the police of violating the students’ rights.
Allegations of Excessive Force
According to Vyas’s complaint, over 200 students were arrested during the protests, which were initially peaceful. He alleged that the police used “excessive and brutal force,” resulting in serious injuries to many students. The complaint further stated that this excessive action violated the right to peaceful assembly, a fundamental human right.
The NHRC, upon reviewing the complaint, expressed concern that the allegations, if proven true, represent a severe violation of human rights and dignity. The commission noted that the Supreme Court has previously condemned such actions, emphasizing that police should not exceed reasonable force, especially when a situation is under control.
Background: RG Kar Medical College Rape-Murder Case
The protests were sparked by the tragic case of a trainee doctor who was allegedly raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College on August 9. Her body, bearing severe injury marks, was discovered in a seminar hall by a fellow doctor. The case has since been transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) following an order by the Calcutta High Court on August 13, 2023. The incident has led to widespread protests and calls for justice across the nation.
The NHRC’s involvement highlights the severity of the accusations against the Kolkata Police, urging swift and transparent action to address the concerns raised by the students and the complainant. The outcome of the police’s action taken report is keenly awaited as the situation develops.
