NHRC Probes Communal Tensions Following Rape Attempt in Telangana

The NHRC has taken notice of a media report on a rape and murder attempt in Telangana, which escalated into communal violence. The commission seeks detailed reports from state authorities.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report that an attempt to rape and murder a woman escalated into a situation of communal tension and violence amidst protests by tribal organisations in Jainoor town of Kumuram Bheem Asifabad district, Telangana, on September 4, according to a statement by the NHRC on Tuesday. Some shops and commercial establishments were set ablaze, and a religious place was pelted with stones. The administration imposed a curfew and banned internet services in the affected region, with additional forces deployed. Reportedly, the accused was arrested, and community elders pacified the situation, said the statement.

The Commission observed that the contents of the news report, if true, raise serious human rights violations. It has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, Telangana, demanding a detailed report. The report is expected to include the status of the FIR, and details on the health, counselling, and compensation provided to the victim by state authorities, with the response expected within two weeks, according to the statement.

As per the media report dated September 5, 2024, the accused, an autorickshaw driver, attempted to murder the woman after failing to sexually assault her. She raised an alarm, and the perpetrator hit her with a stick, leaving her unconscious on the road. She was later shifted to a hospital and recounted the incident to the police after regaining consciousness. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)