New Delhi/Chamba – The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognisance of a high-profile controversy in Himachal Pradesh, stepping in after a woman police constable accused a sitting BJP MLA from Chamba district of persistent harassment.
In a move highlighting the seriousness of the allegations, the NCW has formally requested a detailed action-taken report from the Superintendent of Police (SP) in Chamba, demanding a swift and impartial inquiry into the woman’s claims against the lawmaker.
Viral Video Sparks Outcry
The issue gained widespread attention after a video of the aggrieved woman went viral on social media. In the distressing clip, she tearfully alleges that the local BJP MLA has been systematically harassing her and her entire family. She claims the intimidation is a result of her refusal to bow to undue pressure and that the MLA is misusing his official position and political clout.
“My family and I are being targeted. We are living in fear,” she states in the video, her voice trembling. She alleges the harassment is an ongoing ordeal, causing constant mental anguish and making it difficult for her to perform her duties as a law enforcement officer.
NCW Demands Swift Action
Reacting promptly to the video and media reports, the NCW, under Chairperson Rekha Sharma, expressed grave concern. The commission noted that the allegations are particularly disturbing given that the accused is a public representative sworn to uphold the law.
“The National Commission for Women is deeply disturbed by the reported incident,” an official statement read. “It is unacceptable for a public servant, who is also a woman, to face such alleged harassment from a person in a position of power. We have asked the Chamba SP to conduct a fair investigation and apprise the Commission of the facts and the action taken within seven days.”
This directive from the women’s panel places the local police administration under scrutiny and adds pressure to ensure a transparent investigation, free from any political influence.
MLA Denies Allegations, Claims Conspiracy
Meanwhile, the accused BJP MLA has reportedly refuted the allegations, describing them as a “politically motivated conspiracy” designed to tarnish his public image. Sources close to the MLA indicated that he believes political rivals are orchestrating the complaint to gain an advantage.
Political Fallout and Calls for Justice
The incident has ignited a fierce political debate across Himachal Pradesh. Opposition parties are challenging the ruling BJP government’s stance on women’s safety and have demanded the MLA’s resignation pending the investigation’s outcome.
Simultaneously, activists and civil society groups are calling for robust witness protection for the complainant and her family, emphasizing the courage required for a government employee to speak out against a powerful political figure. All eyes are now on the Chamba police, whose handling of the case will be seen as a critical test for the rule of law in the state.
