Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 8: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report alleging illegal detention and custodial torture of a journalist by the Rajkot Crime Branch police in Gujarat.

Taking serious note of the allegations, the commission observed that if the claims are true, they point to a grave violation of human rights. It has issued a notice to the state’s Director General of Police, seeking a detailed report within two weeks. The report is expected to include updates on the investigation and the current health condition of the victim.

According to the report, the incident allegedly took place on March 22, when the journalist—who runs an online media platform—was picked up by the Rajkot Crime Branch in what has been described as an unlawful manner. It is further alleged that he was subjected to severe physical abuse, including being stripped, suspended upside down, and tortured, resulting in serious injuries.

The report also claims that there were attempts to pressure staff at Rajkot Civil Hospital against admitting the victim, along with threats of false cases and demolition of his residence.

The journalist was reportedly admitted to the hospital on March 23, where his injuries were documented, bringing the alleged incident into public attention.

The NHRC has now called for a comprehensive response from state authorities to examine the matter further. Established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, the commission functions as an autonomous body tasked with safeguarding fundamental rights such as life, liberty, equality, and dignity. It also has the authority to initiate action on its own based on media reports or public information, even without a formal complaint.