A recent NHRC report on the Sandeshkhali incident revealed significant human rights violations. The report details instances of assault, threats, sexual exploitation, land grabbing, forced unpaid labor, and the deprivation of the right to vote. These violations have compelled victims to seek livelihoods outside the Sandeshkhali region.
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New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) released a report based on its spot inquiry into the violence in Sandeshkhali, highlighting several instances of atrocities committed against the victims. The report reveals a prima facie violation of human rights due to negligence in preventing these incidents. As a result, the Commission has recommended a “fair investigation” into the complaints by central agencies.
The NHRC’s team, led by one of its members, conducted a spot visit between February 23-25. The report emphasized that the atmosphere created by the “alleged accused persons” atrocities left the victims silent and reluctant to seek justice due to intimidation and fear.
In order to address the situation effectively, the NHRC recommends
The appointment of special rapporteurs to periodically report on the situation in Sandeshkhali. The report also calls for the investigation of missing girls and women, ensuring witness protection and redressal of grievances, counseling and rehabilitation of victims of sexual offenses, the return of land to legitimate owners, and the operationalization of a Nationwide Emergency Response System (NERS).
One of the alarming findings of the inquiry report is the high number of missing females;
“The enquiry report raises significant concern, noting that from January 1, 2023, to February 25, Police Station Sandeshkhall reported 37 young women and 3 minor girls as still untraced among missing females. This sizable number warrants a comprehensive investigation to locate these individuals and determine the underlying causes, including the possibility of human trafficking involvement,” stated the report. Therefore, the Commission recommends initiating an investigation into these missing women cases.”
The NHRC requested the West Bengal Government to provide an action taken report on its recommendations within eight weeks. The report also raises concerns about allegations of the deprivation of the right to vote, which are considered serious and undermine the democratic values of the nation.
As per the report, the villagers and victims experienced a range of atrocities such as assault, threats, sexual exploitation, land grabbing, and forced unpaid labor. These conditions compelled them to seek livelihoods outside the Sandeshkhall region.
The Inquiry team also noted serious allegations concerning the deprivation of the right to vote, which are considered significant as they undermine the democratic values of the nation.
The NHRC statement emphasized that despite reminders, no response has been received to date after the Inquiry team interacted with the police and administration at Sandeshkhall, requesting further information.
During the inquiry, the NHRC team interacted with the police and administration at Sandeshkhali and requested further information. However, despite reminders, no reply has been received as of yet.
Sheikh Shahjahan, the prime accused facing allegations of land grabbing and sexual harassment in Sandeshkhali, was arrested on February 29 by the state police. Following his arrest, Shahjahan, a Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader, was suspended by the party for six years.
On February 21, the NHRC took suo motu cognizance of media reports related to the protests and violence in Sandeshkhali. In addition to sending a team to the spot, the Commission sought a report from the state Government. In response, the Director-General and Inspector General of Police of West Bengal revealed that a total of 25 cases had been registered, including seven cases of alleged sexual offenses against women, and 24 accused persons had been arrested. The state authorities assured that efforts were underway to apprehend the remaining perpetrators.
READ PREVIOUS REPORTS ON SANDESHKHALI VIOLENCE
