NHRC orders inquiry into allegation against Punjab CM's wife over ₹5 crore rape case bribery claim
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognisance of a complaint alleging that the wife of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann sought ₹5 crore to suppress a rape case. The complaint is said to have been made by former Punjab and Haryana High Court judge Justice Ranjit Singh. The NHRC has directed the state’s Chief Secretary and Director General of Police to investigate the matter and submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) within two weeks.
The NHRC bench, headed by Priyank Kanoongo, issued the notice on [date not specified]. The Commission has also forwarded the complaint to the Women Safety Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, for further consideration. The NHRC said that subsequent action would be based on the ATR submitted by the Punjab authorities.
As per the complaint, the alleged demand for money was made in connection with a rape case, raising serious concerns about obstruction of justice. The NHRC’s intervention follows its mandate to address human rights violations, including the right to fair legal process for victims and the accused alike. The allegations have not been verified by the Commission at this stage, and no official response has yet been issued by the Punjab Chief Minister’s office or his family.
The NHRC is a statutory body constituted under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. It is empowered to inquire into complaints of human rights violations, either suo motu or on a petition filed by an individual. When a complaint is received, the Commission often seeks a report from the concerned authorities to determine whether a prima facie case exists. The issuance of a notice does not amount to a finding of guilt; it is a procedural step to gather facts.
In this case, the authorities have been given two weeks to respond. The NHRC may also call for records, summon witnesses, or order further investigation depending on the ATR. The forwarding of the matter to the Women Safety Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs is significant because it pertains to a crime against a woman and the alleged attempt to suppress it. The division coordinates with state governments on safety issues and may independently monitor the case.
Justice Ranjit Singh, who reportedly made the allegation, is a former judge with a distinguished career. His statement has drawn attention due to the seniority of the individuals involved. However, it is essential to note that an allegation remains an allegation until proved. The Punjab government and the accused individuals are entitled to due process. As of now, there has been no public statement from the Chief Minister or his wife addressing the claim.
The NHRC’s action is part of its broader role in ensuring accountability in matters involving human rights. While the Commission’s recommendations are not binding on courts, they carry significant moral weight and often prompt administrative action. The outcome of the inquiry will depend on the evidence gathered by the state police and the response of the authorities involved.
This development comes amid heightened public discourse on the handling of sexual assault cases in India. The NHRC’s swift response underscores the importance of maintaining public confidence in the justice system. Whether the allegations are substantiated or not, the inquiry process itself serves as a reminder that no individual is above the law. The Commission’s next hearing or decision will be based on the ATR, which will be examined in detail.
