NHRC issues notice to DGP, Uttar Pradesh & Delhi CP in self-immolation case outside Supreme Court

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notice to Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi Police Commissioner over the issue about the death of a woman victim of alleged sexual assault and police apathy after self-immolation along with a man outside the Supreme Court.

In a press release, the NHRC, has stated that it has taken cognizance of a complaint that a woman, victim of alleged sexual assault and police apathy set herself on fire along with a man outside the Supreme Court in New Delhi on 16th August, 2021. News reports have confirmed that subsequently both died while undergoing treatment in RML Hospital.

The Commission has also sought detailed report within four weeks in the matter, along with the action initiated against the errant public servants.

The DGP, Uttar Pradesh has also been directed to ensure safety and security of the family members of the victims.

Issuing the notices, the Commission has observed that it is shocking how an alleged victim of sexual assault was feeling victimized by the system.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) had also taken cognisance of the issue, seeking a detailed report by the DG, UP Police. It is pertinent to mention that before the woman set herself on fire, she was live on her Facebook page along with a man, narrating her plight via broadcast on social media.

The Chairperson, Ms. Rekha Sharma, NCW has also sought explanation on the action taken to provide security to the victim & asked for action against erring police officers for dereliction of duty.

The woman who attempted to kill herself along with a man in front of the Supreme Court, Gate D is reportedly a rape victim and was live on Facebook when the incident took place and spoke about the reason behind their step.

The woman in the video can be seen making allegations against rape accused Bahujan Samajwadi Party leader, Atul Rai from Uttar Pradesh.

The woman can also be heard alleging that Uttar Pradesh Police has been declaring her character less. Several other allegations have also been made against an MP MLA Judge, Prayagraj along with other officers of the UP Police.

They said that they are being pressurised by several political leaders and are being harassed by the 'Bahubali's', the man said,
"Ye log bohot zyada khatarnak log hai...ab honey trap me fasa rahe hai...ye asan nahi hai in logon k liye or na ab asan hoga."