NHRC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance on Reported Trafficking, Sale and Sexual Assault of Odisha Tribal Girl; Seeks Reports From UP, Odisha Authorities

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report concerning the trafficking, sale and repeated sexual assault of a 17-year-old tribal girl from Odisha’s Dhenkanal district in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh.

According to a press release issued by the Commission, the victim, along with three other girls, was allegedly trafficked to Uttar Pradesh on the pretext of being provided employment. The NHRC noted reports that the girl was subjected to repeated sexual assault after being trafficked, subjected to abortion and remained trapped for a prolonged period. As per the reports, the victim managed to escape her perpetrators and recorded her statement before Jhansi police, but no further action was taken except being provided with a train ticket back to Odisha. Upon her return, the Odisha Police recorded her statement, and an investigation is underway. 

Taking note of the media report, the Commission observed:

“The contents of the news report, if true, raise a serious issue of violation of human rights.”

Accordingly, the NHRC has issued notices to the Director General of Police, Odisha, the Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh, and the District Magistrate, Dhenkanal, calling for a detailed report within two weeks.

The Commission has sought information regarding the status of the investigation as well as the steps taken to provide relief and rehabilitation to the victim.