Mumbai: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of allegations involving the participation of minor children in a protest organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Mumbai’s Shivaji Park.
The commission has issued notices to the Mumbai Police Commissioner, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), X Corp., and Maharashtra’s Women and Child Development Department, directing them to submit action taken reports within a week.
The NHRC has asked Mumbai Police to investigate how the minors were brought to and involved in the demonstration and examine the specific roles of the organisers.
Police have been directed to initiate appropriate legal action if the inquiry establishes any cognisable offence.
The allegations also include claims that children may have been deliberately positioned to discourage or restrict police intervention. The commission has further sought examination of possible violations of child-protection laws, including the Juvenile Justice Act.
X Corp. has been asked to preserve photographs, videos and social media material related to the children’s presence at the protest, including information that may help trace their source and circulation.
Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Women and Child Development Department has been directed to ensure the care, protection and welfare of the children, assess any need for assistance, and safeguard their rights under applicable laws.
The reports are expected to detail the investigation, organisers’ roles, any violations found, and measures taken for the children’s protection.
