Patiala: Allegations that a youth was subjected to electric shocks, beatings and religious humiliation after protesting against Punjab’s drug menace have prompted National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) intervention. The commission has sought an action-taken report from the state govt within two weeks.NHRC directed the Punjab chief secretary, DGP, SSP Sangrur and district magistrate to inquire into allegations involving Mohanjit Singh, who was allegedly detained after waving a black flag during a govt ‘Lok Milni’ programme at Sheron village in Sunam on Sep 2.The action followed a complaint by BJP Rajya Sabha MP Tarun Chugh on Sep 4 alleging custodial violence and religious humiliation. The complaint alleged that Mohanjit was beaten, given electric shocks, his joora untied and his hair and beard pulled. It also alleged that his mother and sister were intimidated and made to watch a video call showing him in a battered and stripped condition.Taking cognisance of the complaint, an NHRC bench headed by member Priyank Kanoongo said the allegations prima facie disclosed a “serious violation” of Mohanjit’s right to life, dignity and bodily integrity. Notices were issued under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.The commission sought details of the legal basis, time and place of detention, DDR and General Diary entries, and any FIR registered. It ordered an immediate medico-legal examination and sought the MLC, injury and treatment records.It also directed authorities to preserve complete, unedited CCTV footage and electronic evidence linked to the alleged video call, and provide details of all personnel involved in Mohanjit’s detention and interrogation.Sangrur SSP Ravjot Garewal said the report would be submitted within the stipulated period and that a team headed by SP (Headquarters) Sukhamrit Randhawa was investigating the matter.
