The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report concerning the suicide of a 19-year-old woman in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh. According to the report, the woman was allegedly gang-raped by six persons, including three minors.
The report stated that the woman was under severe distress after allegedly being threatened with the circulation of a video of the incident. She reportedly consumed poison and died by suicide.
Taking serious note of the matter, the NHRC has issued notices to the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) and the District Magistrate (DM) of Jhansi. The Commission has sought a detailed report within two weeks regarding the present status of the investigation and the action taken in the case.
The NHRC has also asked whether any compensation or financial assistance has been provided to the next of kin of the deceased. The Commission observed that, if the contents of the media report are found to be true, the incident raises serious issues concerning the violation of human rights.
The Commission’s intervention seeks to ascertain the facts of the case, the progress of the investigation and the steps taken by the authorities to support the victim’s family. The matter also highlights concerns relating to the safety of women, protection of victims of sexual offences and the need for effective investigation in cases involving threats and exploitation.
