The National Commission for Women has taken cognisance of the complaint presented by Lucknow-based social activist Dr Nutan Thakur regarding the Kanpur women’s shelter case and has issued notice to District Magistrate of Kanpur Nagar Dr Brahmdeo Ram Tripathi.
The notice issued by NCW member Kamlesh Gautam says that the complaint pertains to allegations of deprivation of women’s rights and right to live with dignity. The DM of Kanpur Nagar has been directed to look into the matter, take appropriate action in accordance with law and communicate action taken to the NCW within 30 days.
In her complaint, Thakur had said that the Supreme Court in its order dated April 3, 2020, in suo motu Writ Petition No 4 of 2020, had issued many important directions for protection of children in children’s protection homes, a copy of which was sent through email to all state chief secretaries. These directions covered various aspects to be followed to protect the children from COVID-19.
As per Thakur, these directions were not followed in the Kanpur shelter home. While the maximum capacity of the shelter home was 100, 171 girls were kept there, along with 26 staff members, which was much higher than the capacity. In addition, appropriate precautions were not taken regarding the seven pregnant girls.
Hence, Thakur had sought compensation and action in this case.