Tehelka case: NCW seeks reply from Lekhi for Twitter remark

The National Commission for Women today sought an explanation from BJP spokesperson Meenakshi Lekhi for revealing on Twitter the surname of the female journalist who had accused Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal of sexual assault.

"We have sought an explanation from Meenakshi Lekhi on why she has revealed surname of the victim. She is a responsible person, and if a person like her makes a mistake like this, than it is very unfortunate," NCW member Shamina Shafiq, who is also the commission's in-charge for Goa, said.

The commission has asked Lekhi to file her reply within 25 hours.

Revealing identity of the victim in such cases is punishable under Section 228A of IPC and Shafiq said NCW will take action against this act.

She further said that such actions of political leaders are unnecessary and irresponsible, as the accused Tarun Tejpal is cooperating with the police in the probe.

NCW had also issued a show-cause notice and summoned Vijay Jolly at the office today but Shafiq said that the BJP leader could not be present today as he was summoned by the Saket Police at the same time.

Jolly, in his reply, said he will be available before the Commission on Monday, Shafiq said.