The National Human Rights Commission has asked the Delhi Government to pay Rs.5 lakh as monetary relief to a minor who suffered sexual harassment at the hands of a Delhi Police constable. It has also called for a compliance report from the Delhi Chief Secretary along with a proof of payment.
The Commission has directed that the money be put into a fixed deposit in her name, the interest from which her legal guardian would be authorised to use for her welfare while she is a minor. The principal, together with any accrued interest, would thus remain at her disposal when she would become an adult.
The Commission took up this case on the basis of a complaint quoting a media report in February 2012.
The 12-year-old girl was molested by a Delhi Police constable. The Commission found that the constable had prima facie outraged the modesty of the minor girl and for this he was booked under Section 354 of the Indian Penal Code at Mandir Marg police station on February 11, 2012, and was suspended from service.
The Commission observed that as prima facie a public servant had abused his position/power and violated the human rights of a minor girl, the State was liable. The Commission also recommended to the Chief Secretary that Rs.5 lakh be paid as monetary relief to the victim.
