The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Karnataka government and the state's police chief in response to a distressing incident in Belagavi district. A 42-year-old woman was allegedly subjected to a humiliating act, stripped, paraded naked, and tied to an electric pole, following the elopement of her son with a girl from the same village on December 11, as reported by the Karnataka Police, as reported by PTI.
The NHRC, expressing concern over the incident's "stereotyped patriarchal approach," emphasized that such actions clearly violate the victim's right to life and dignity. Taking suo motu cognizance of a media report on December 12, the Commission deemed the matter a serious violation of human rights, particularly those of vulnerable sections like women, children, and the elderly.
In response, the NHRC has issued notices to the chief secretary and director general of police of Karnataka, demanding a comprehensive report within four weeks. The report is expected to cover the status of FIR registration, progress in the investigation, any arrests made, compensation under the Victim Compensation Scheme, and steps taken or planned to prevent such incidents in the state.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Commission has directed its DIG, Investigation, to form a team for an on-spot fact-finding inquiry. The team is tasked with submitting a report within two weeks
