Supreme Court Stands Firm Against Harassment
In a strong rebuke, the Supreme Court of India expressed grave concern over the reported intimidation and harassment of a 14-year-old girl who participated in the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protests held at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. The incident was brought to the court’s attention as vigilante actions against the young participant and her family came to light.
Judicial Bench Takes a Stand
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, underscored the seriousness of the issue. CJI Surya Kant remarked, “Allegations of intimidation of the girl and her family members are severe matters that cannot be ignored. Violence against a child is unacceptable, and those responsible should not evade justice.”
Protests and Consequences
The controversy arose when Swatantra Bhardwaj, a right-wing influencer, publicly claimed on social media that he had assaulted the girl’s father during the CJP protests. Initially, Bhardwaj was charged under Sections 115(2) and 126(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for causing simple hurt and wrongful restraint. However, following his social media admissions and claims of close ties to NDA leaders, he was detained briefly by the police.
Subsequent to the CJP leaders, including the girl and her father, staging a protest at the Parliament Street police station, more grave charges were filed against Bhardwaj, leading to his arrest and current judicial custody.
Legal Proceedings and Concerns
The Supreme Court’s attention was particularly drawn to a counter FIR filed against the girl, rather than the individuals allegedly involved in her harassment. A counsel representing the victim highlighted the lapse in justice, demanding status reports from Uttar Pradesh and Delhi regarding the FIRs, the security measures for the child, and actions against the accused.
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The counsel pointed out, “Instead of prosecuting those caught on camera with the accused, an FIR was inexplicably registered against the child, contradicting the Supreme Court’s prior directives.”
Supreme Court’s Assurance
CJI Surya Kant assured, “These matters will not be trivialized. The safety of the child is paramount, and we will scrutinize the facts and issue necessary orders.” Solicitor General Tushar Mehta confirmed that the court would address the complaints thoroughly, with the possibility of issuing further directives.
The High-Powered Committee set up by the Supreme Court to investigate the violence against CJP protestors is still in progress. Meanwhile, the court emphasized the urgency of the child’s protection, stating, “Should any harm befall the child, it cannot be reversed or remedied post-factum.”
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The court’s commitment to ensuring justice and safety for the minor and her family stands firm, as it prepares to pass appropriate orders in response to the unfolding situation.
