Hyderabad, February 4: The National Commission for Women (NCW) has established an investigative committee to look into the alleged sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl during the Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara held in Mulugu district, Telangana.
This decision follows reports circulating in the media and on social platforms. Some reports have claimed that the incident involves gang rape, allegedly perpetrated by five young men from Chhattisgarh.
Given the seriousness of the case, NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar ordered the formation of the committee. The committee will be led by NCW member Delina Khongdup, with Kanchan Khattar, Senior Coordinator at NCW, serving as a member.
The investigation will commence on February 5. The committee may also receive assistance from a lawyer appointed by the Mulugu District Legal Services Authority (DLSA).
According to the NCW, the committee is tasked with investigating the causes of the alleged incident, evaluating the actions taken by relevant authorities, interviewing officials and individuals to uncover facts, and recommending corrective measures to prevent such occurrences in the future. The committee will submit its recommendations to the NCW for further action.
The commission has emphasized its commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and safety of women and minors, and it will closely monitor the case based on the committee’s report.
It is noteworthy that the Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara, held from January 28 to 31, attracted thousands of devotees. This biennial event is considered Asia’s largest tribal fair, drawing participants from various states, including Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Chhattisgarh.
The Telangana government had made extensive arrangements for the event, with officials claiming that the program proceeded peacefully and that no untoward incidents were reported.