GSHRC directs district authorities and police to take immediate legal and disciplinary action against temple security staff and police officials
In a significant development, the Gujarat State Human Rights Commission (GSHRC) has taken serious note of allegations involving harassment, unlawful detention, and human rights violations against a government doctor couple at the famous Dwarkadhish Temple.
Acting on a formal complaint filed by the aggrieved couple, the Commission has issued urgent directives to the district magistrate and superintendent of police, ordering immediate legal and disciplinary action against the concerned security personnel and police officials found responsible in the matter.
Doctor Couple Alleges Humiliation and Illegal Detention
According to the complaint and affidavit submitted before the Commission, the doctor couple alleged that they were publicly humiliated on the basis of a false criminal complaint during their visit to the temple.
The couple further claimed that their 11-year-old daughter was illegally detained at a police station until 9 pm, causing severe mental distress to the family.
The case has sparked widespread concern over the conduct of temple security staff and local police authorities, especially considering the allegations involve a prominent religious institution visited by thousands of devotees every year.
Human Rights Commission Launches Independent Inquiry
Taking a strict stand, the GSHRC has initiated an independent inquiry against multiple officials, including the temple administrator, police inspector, sub-inspector, and three security personnel associated with the temple administration.
The Commission observed that this was reportedly the second or third recent instance of alleged systemic human rights violations linked to the temple administration and its security apparatus.
Preliminary findings reportedly suggest possible misuse of legal procedures, including naming a complainant who was allegedly not present at the scene of the incident. The issue has already drawn attention from the additional chief judicial magistrate.
Officials Directed to Appear Before Commission
The Human Rights Commission has directed all accused officials to appear personally before the panel during the upcoming hearings and explain their conduct.
Additionally, the chief administrator of the temple trust has been instructed to submit a detailed internal inquiry report regarding the incident.
Given the seriousness of the allegations, the Commission has also ordered the district magistrate and superintendent of police to participate in the proceedings through video conferencing to ensure accountability and transparency in the investigation.
“I Just Want Justice,” Says Doctor
Speaking on the matter, the doctor involved in the case stated that the family decided to fight because they were aware of their rights.
“I just want justice for what happened to me. We know our rights, and therefore, I could fight. What about others coming to the temple? They detained us till 9 pm. Action is required so that in the future, it does not happen to anyone else,” the doctor said.
Growing Concerns Over Human Rights Violations at Religious Places
The incident has once again raised concerns regarding the treatment of visitors at major religious sites and the accountability of private security personnel and local law enforcement agencies.
The outcome of the Commission’s inquiry is expected to play a crucial role in determining responsibility and preventing similar incidents in the future.
