NHRC takes suo motu cognisance of Hubballi rape-murder of minor, and police encounter of accused

Bengaluru: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of media reports concerning the abduction, rape and murder of a minor girl, followed by the death of the arrested accused in a police encounter in Hubballi.

The incident, which took place on April 14, has sparked widespread concern over possible violations of human rights. According to reports, the body of the minor girl was found in a bathroom, prompting angry local residents to stage a protest outside the Ashok Nagar police station, demanding swift action against the perpetrator.

The accused was allegedly apprehended by police shortly after the discovery of the body. However, during transportation for interrogation, he reportedly attempted to attack the police personnel, leading to gunfire in which he sustained fatal injuries.

Taking serious note of the matter, the Commission observed that, if true, the reported facts raise grave concerns regarding the protection of human rights — both of the minor victim and of the suspect killed in the alleged encounter.

Accordingly, the NHRC has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, Government of Karnataka, seeking a detailed report within four weeks. The Commission has asked that the report include the post-mortem examination and the Magisterial Enquiry Reports of both deceased individuals.