NHRC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Public Humiliation of Woman in Madhya Pradesh’s Jhabua

April 24, 2026 : The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report concerning the public humiliation of a woman in the Jhabua district on 13 April 2026. According to reports, villagers allegedly forced the woman to carry her husband on her shoulders and paraded her through the village over accusations of elopement. It is further alleged that her head was shaved during the incident. The matter surfaced after a video of the act circulated widely on social media.

Observing that the reported incident, if true, raises serious concerns of human rights violations, the Commission has issued notices to the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police, Jhabua. It has sought a detailed report within two weeks, including updates on the investigation and information regarding any compensation or relief extended to the victim.

As per media accounts dated 15 April 2026, the police traced the woman following the circulation of the video and ensured her protection. An FIR has been registered, and several individuals have reportedly been taken into custody in connection with the incident.