Angul/New Delhi: Urging the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to seek a detailed status report from the Odisha DGP over the alleged harassment of a woman Havildar by seniors in Angul, two rights activists have knocked the doors of the Commission.

In their petitions, lawyer Anup Kumar Patra and social activist Subrat Kumar Das have requested the Commission to direct an independent probe into the allegations. They have also sought protection for the woman Havildar, Sumitra Biswal.

Meanwhile, an investigation has been ordered into allegations of harassment made by Biswal against senior police officials.

Based on the allegations levelled by the Havildar, Angul Superintendent of Police Rahul Jain said a woman Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) has been assigned to conduct an inquiry into the matter. In addition, the department’s Internal Complaints Committee will also carry out a parallel probe.

Biswal, the woman Havildar, posted at the district police reserve, had submitted a written complaint to the SP, alleging mental harassment by a Reserve Inspector and another staff member. She had also expressed her intention to resign from service in the complaint.

She alleged Reserve Inspector Gobinda Mahar and writer constable Subhakant Sahu repeatedly subjected her to mental harassment during her tenure. 

“The matter will be thoroughly investigated. Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry reports,” the SP said.