NHRC seeks Bengal report on thrashing of couple by group 'linked to TMC'

NEW DELHI: The National Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of reports about a couple being mercilessly beaten up in Lakshmipur village in Uttar Dinajpur district in West Bengal in full public view, by a "group of people" reportedly associated with the TMC which is power in the state. The NHRC has decided to send its team for a spot inquiry into the matter.

The commission has issued notices to the chief secretary and director general of police, West Bengal calling for a detailed report within one week. The NHRC has also asked authorities to tell what steps have been taken by the state govt to ensure that "such incidents of violation of the human rights of the citizens, by politically protected goons, do not recur".

The video of the incident that reportedly happened on June 29 has gone viral on social media causing outrage. The NHRC highlights that according to the media report, the allegations of a love affair between the victim couple were discussed in an open meeting (Panchayat) by the annoyed villagers. Then, the miscreants started beating the duo.