Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of the case pertaining to the assault of journalist Lokanath Dalei and putting his leg under fetters by Nilagiri Police.
Citing media reports, the OHRC stated that Nilagiri Police in the district of Balasore allegedly assaulted Dalei and chained him to the bed while he was undergoing treatment at the district headquarters hospital.
The photograph showing Dalei chained to the bed speaks volumes regarding issues relating to violation of human rights, it added.
The OHRC has directed the Inspector General of Police, Eastern Range, Balasore to submit a report within 15 days. The IGP should address the facts reported in the news items, more particularly, justifying the reason for putting the victim under fetters, it added.
The Chief District Medical & Public Health Officer has also been called upon by the Commission to submit his report on the matter by the next date. The hearing has been put up on April 26 for further orders.
