NHRC Issues Notice to Kolkata Police Over Alleged Excessive Force in Protests

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Kolkata Police commissioner regarding the alleged use of excessive force on protesters on August 27. These protesters were demanding justice for the victim in the RG Kar Medical College rape-murder case. The NHRC has requested an action-taken report from the police commissioner within two weeks.

A complaint from O P Vyas of the Bharatiya Human Rights Initiative (BHIM) prompted this notice. Vyas claimed that during the Nabanna Abhijan protests, students were subjected to brutal physical assaults by police while peacefully demonstrating. Over 200 students were arrested, many sustaining serious injuries. This action was seen as a violation of their right to peaceful assembly and a disregard for human rights.

Allegations of Excessive Force

The NHRC, after reviewing the complaint, stated that if these allegations are true, they represent a severe violation of the right to peaceful assembly. The Supreme Court has also noted that when police use excessive force, it becomes a significant issue, especially if they continue their actions even after controlling the situation. This behaviour results in violations of human rights and human dignity.

The NHRC's notice to the Kolkata Police commissioner calls for an action-taken report within two weeks. The commission emphasised that such actions by the police could not be justified and needed immediate attention.

Background of the Incident

The incident that sparked these protests involved a trainee doctor who was allegedly raped and murdered in a seminar hall at RG Kar Medical College. She had gone there to rest during her graveyard shift on August 9. Her body, bearing severe injury marks, was discovered by another doctor on rounds.

On August 13, the Calcutta High Court ordered that the investigation be transferred from Kolkata Police to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The CBI took over the case on August 14. This incident has led to widespread protests across the nation.

The complainant, Vyas, urged that measures be taken to protect students' rights and provide compensation to those injured during the protest. "This action violated their right to peaceful assembly and reflected a grave disregard for human rights," reads Vyas's complaint.

The NHRC's intervention highlights the importance of addressing allegations of police brutality and ensuring accountability. The commission's demand for an action-taken report underscores its commitment to upholding human rights standards.

The nationwide protests following this tragic incident reflect public outrage and demand for justice. The transfer of the case to CBI indicates a need for a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter.

Ensuring justice for the victim and addressing police excesses during protests are crucial steps in maintaining public trust in law enforcement agencies. The NHRC's involvement aims to ensure that such incidents are investigated thoroughly and that appropriate actions are taken against those responsible.

The NHRC's notice serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting citizens' rights during demonstrations and holding authorities accountable for any misuse of power.