Following allegations of policemen entering and allegedly assaulting women inmates of Nari Niketan at Karnal in Haryana, the National Commission of Women (NCW) on Monday constituted an inquiry committee to investigate the matter. The Women and Child Development ministry (WCD) too took cognizance of reports of irregularities in the home. The Nari Niketan is the only “after care home” for women in Haryana. Moreover, while the sanctioned strength is for 25 inmates, there are 59 women living there at present. However, the district administration has rubbished the allegations.

A committee comprising Malini Bhattacharya and Yasmin Abrar, both members of NCW, will be visiting the womens’ home on Tuesday. The WCD will also ask the Chief Secretary and the state administration for a comprehensive report in the matter.

Over 40 policemen allegedly entered the home on Saturday evening following reports that the inmates had turned unruly. With only two women constables in the police party, the policemen allegedly restrained the women forcefully and also beat them up. The inmates said they were only complaining about the cramped living conditions and lack of basic facilities.

Meanwhile, according to SSP Karnal, both the Deputy SP and the SDM were present on the spot and “no force was used on the women.” Instead he said the inmates turned violent and broke glass panes and threatened the staff of the home. “It was a power cut in the area which triggered the whole incident, “ he said.

When asked about the presence of women constables, he confirmed that there were not “too many women constables”. There are 45 women constables against 1300 male policemen in Karnal.

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