BHUBANESWAR: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued summons to the Home Secretary asking him to appear on June 19 in case he fails to submit a compliance report on human rights violation in Rengapali village in Kalahandi district by June 12.
Sources said the Special Secretary of Home Department was asked to submit the report by April 10 at the Commission’s camp here on January 10 following the recommendations of special rapporteur Damodar Sarangi. Despite a reminder in April, the report is yet to reach Chairman of the human rights body.
The action of the NHRC came after Supreme Court Lawyer and rights activist Radhakanta Tripathy filed a petition and subsequent rejoinder highlighting the plight of 47 poor tribal villagers of Rengapali who were tortured and arrested by the police for protesting construction of an ash pond by a private company in 2012.
The apex human rights panel had earlier issued notice to the Chief Secretary who failed to provide satisfactory reply. Subsequently, the NHRC decided the matter to be investigated by special rapporteur to ensure basic human rights of the villagers.
In a report to the Commission, the Kalahandi SP had justified the action taken by the police and denied the charge in the findings of the special rapporteur on the violation of rights of 47 tribals.
Despite explanation by the administration and police, the investigation by the NHRC special rapporteur found the police to be guilty. He also recommended financial assistance for the victims who were harassed for fighting for their rights.