Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 22: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the Punjab government and the state Director General of Police seeking an action taken report on a complaint alleging that Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s wife demanded Rs 5 crore to suppress a rape case.

The NHRC directed the Punjab chief secretary and the DGP to have the allegations investigated and submit an action taken report within two weeks.

The Commission took cognisance of the complaint filed by Legal Rights Observatory (LRO), which alleged that a retired Punjab judge had publicly claimed that a demand for Rs 5 crore was made in connection with a rape case allegedly involving the Chief Minister’s wife.

An NHRC official said the Commission had taken note of the allegation that Mann’s wife sought Rs 5 crore to suppress the case. The complaint stated that the allegation had been made by a former Punjab judge.

The LRO raised concerns that any such alleged interference could affect the rape victim’s right to dignity, safety, a fair investigation and access to justice.

The complainant sought independent verification of the allegation, preservation of evidence and an impartial inquiry into any alleged attempt to influence or dilute the investigation. It also stressed that the rights of a rape victim should remain above considerations of influence, status or position.

After examining the complaint, an NHRC bench headed by member Priyank Kanoongo observed that the allegation prima facie appeared to raise concerns relating to the human rights of the victim. The Commission took cognisance of the matter under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.

The bench directed the NHRC registry to issue notices to the Punjab chief secretary and the DGP, asking them to ensure that the allegations made in the complaint are inquired into and to submit an action taken report within two weeks.

A copy of the proceedings was also directed to be sent to the Joint Secretary of the Women Safety Division under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi for information.

The allegations have not been established, and the NHRC's direction is for an inquiry into the claims. There was no immediate reaction from the Punjab government.