NHRC issues notices to Telangana CS and DGP on Lagcherla violence

Hyderabad: Taking cognizance of a complaint of alleged police harassment and false implication of the villagers, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) launched an investigation into the violence related to the protests against the land acquisition for a proposed ‘pharma’ units in Lagcherla village in Vikarabad district.

On November 11, scores of policemen, along with the local goons, allegedly raided the village and assaulted the protesters, forcing the locals to flee their homes and take refuge elsewhere without food, medical aid, basic amenities, etc. The police allegedly registered FIRs on false complaints against the villagers, including women. The farmers of Lagcherla, accompanied by BRS leader Satyavati Rathod, had submitted a complaint with the Commission in the national capital.

A three-member team from NHRC visited Lagcherla and interacted with the local farmers, tribals, women, and others. It is reported that most of the victims of the alleged atrocities were from the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Communities.

Terming the allegation a serious human rights violation, the Commission issued notices to Telangana’s Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP). It directed them to submit a detailed report within two weeks. The NHRC team and the investigation officers are expected to hold an on-site inquiry soon.