Anti-Sterlite Protests: Delhi HC Asks Lawyer Seeking Independent Probe Into “Unlawful Killings” To Approach NHRC

The Delhi High Court on Friday left it on the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to decide the representation of a lawyer seeking an independent probe into the killing of people in police firing during a protest against Vedanta’s Sterlite Copper unit in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu.

Justice Rajiv Shakdher noted that since the NHRC is already seized of the matter and has already sought a response from the state and the Director General of Police, petitioner A Rajarajan could appear before the commission with his representation.

Rajarajan, a lawyer, was also told to make a representation before the NHRC on May 29.

He had moved the high court on Thursday for the direct intervention of the NHRC claiming that he had made a representation before the commission on May 23 demanding its urgent intervention and action in the “unlawful killings” but in vain. He had also petitioned that if the commission does not act immediately, the situation might worsen and evidence might be destroyed.

However, it is to be noted that only yesterday, the NHRC had taken cognizance of the ground realities in Tuticorin where violence broke out on Tuesday after locals demanded the closure of the plant over pollution concerns. Police firing claimed 11 lives leading to further tension.