NHRC Sends Notice To Telangana Govt Over Woman Cop 'Dragging' Student By Hair

The NHRC has sought a detailed report by initiating suo motu cognizance based on a video clip circulating on social media

Stating the seriousness of the matter, NHRC called for a comprehensive report within four weeks

Source : X/@NHRC

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) sent a notice to Telangana government and state police chief over media reports that a policewoman allegedly dragged by a female student by hair, according to officials on Monday. The incident purportedly took place during a student agitation in Ranga Reddy district.

In a statement, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) expressed concern over potential human rights violations against a student, as reported by the media. If the information on the media report is accurate, the NHRC emphasized the gravity of the situation.

The NHRC has sought a detailed report by initiating suo motu cognizance based on a video clip circulating on social media. The video purportedly shows policewomen dragging a protesting student by her hair in Ranga Reddy district, Telangana, during an agitation by students of the Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU) on January 24, 2024.

Stating the seriousness of the matter, the NHRC has called for a comprehensive report within four weeks. This report should include details about the actions taken against the police officials allegedly involved in the incident. Additionally, the rights panel has issued notices to the chief secretary and the director general of police of Telangana.

The incident stems from student protests against the state government's decision to allocate 100 acres of university land for the construction of a new High Court complex, as per a report published on January 25. The NHRC seeks not only an account of the incident but also the health status of the affected student in the detailed report.

On Monday, Cyberabad Police Commissioner Avinash Mohanty took action by suspending the two women constables from the Rajendranagar police station who were involved in the incident.

Meanwhile, Telangana Opposition leaders including BRS MLC Kavitha raised concern over police brutality.