The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the State Government asking it to show cause as to why monetary relief of Rs25,000 would not be recommended for a Bhubaneswar-based journalist, who was unlawfully assaulted by police.
The police assault on Subhakanta Padhihary in March 2013 was viewed by the commission as a violation of his human rights by public servants. The NHRC also held that Padhihary is entitled for monetary relief under Section 18 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
The police assault on the journalist took place when he had gone to cover a demonstration held in front of the official residence of the Chief Minister. Two cases in this connection were registered against the erring policemen at the local police station while two constables have since been placed under suspension in this connection.