The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken action by issuing notices to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (North Delhi) and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Delhi following allegations of a woman journalist and content creator being violently assaulted during coverage of a protest at the university’s North Campus. The NHRC Member Priyank Kanoongo-led Bench responded to a complaint claiming that the journalist was attacked by a mob while reporting on a protest in support of the University Grants Commission (UGC).
The complaint detailed that the attackers singled out the journalist based on her caste identity, subjected her to verbal abuse, physical assault, threats of violence, and attempted to violate her modesty. It was emphasized that the incident amounted to caste-based violence, an infringement on press freedom, and a severe violation of her fundamental rights to life, dignity, and personal security.
The complainant has urged the NHRC to intervene, calling for an impartial investigation into the incident, action against the perpetrators, provision of adequate security and safety measures for the victim, and the provision of legal assistance and compensation. The NHRC, noting that the allegations suggest potential human rights violations against the victim, has initiated proceedings under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
In response to the matter, the NHRC has instructed the DCP (North Delhi) and the Vice Chancellor of Delhi University to investigate the allegations and furnish an Action Taken Report (ATR) within two weeks for review. Established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, the NHRC serves as an independent statutory body embodying India’s commitment to the advancement and safeguarding of human rights, with a primary focus on protecting and promoting rights related to life, liberty, equality, privacy, and dignity as enshrined in the Constitution and international agreements enforceable by Indian courts.
