The Jharkhand High Court on Friday initiated a suo motu public interest litigation based on media reports alleging sexual exploitation of a female inmate at Birsa Munda Central Jail by the jail superintendent. A division bench comprising Justice Rongon Mukhopadhyay and Justice Pradeep Kumar Srivastava, while holding the vacation court, directed the state government to submit a detailed report on the matter. The court ordered the Director General of Police (DGP) to file an affidavit and provide information regarding the investigation conducted by the authorities.
Court Observations on the Incident
While recording its order, the court noted that the alleged sexual exploitation of the female inmate by the superintendent led to her pregnancy. Subsequently, attempts were made to terminate the fetus. The court also highlighted that higher officials were allegedly trying to cover up the incident. Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi had earlier written a letter to the Chief Justice of the High Court, detailing the news reports and the fact that the inmate was sexually exploited by the jail superintendent.
Need for Detailed Response
The bench observed, "The issue of such magnitude wherein the custodian of the welfare of the inmates has been alleged to have become the predator needs a proper and detailed response from the state as to what steps have been initiated to verify the truthfulness or otherwise of the allegations so made." The court emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and the need for a thorough inquiry.
Government Actions and Next Hearing
During the proceedings, the government informed the court that a three-member committee of senior officials has been constituted to conduct an inquiry into the allegations against the jail official. Additionally, a team from the District Legal Services Authority, led by Judicial Magistrate Shruti Soren, has been tasked with conducting an independent inquiry. The case is scheduled for further hearing on June 8.
This suo motu action by the High Court underscores the judiciary's commitment to addressing human rights violations within custodial institutions. The court's intervention aims to ensure accountability and justice for the victim, while also sending a strong message against any form of exploitation by those in positions of authority.
