Dikshit calls for action in Tehelka sexual assault case

Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit Friday demanded action in the case of an alleged sexual assault of a journalist by Tehelka magazine editor-in-chief Tarun Tejpal, calling such incidents a "blot" on society.

"The incident is a matter of concern and an attack on the self respect of women. There should be action in the case and an example must be set," Dikshit said.

She was interacting with journalists at the Indian Women Press Corps here.

Asked how state governments can ensure that Vishakha guidelines are implemented, Dikshit said: "We have to evolve a mechanism that ensures the guidelines of Supreme Court are implemented."

The Supreme Court laid down the Vishakha guidelines in 1997 following the rape of a social worker in Rajasthan.

These guidelines are for employers dealing with complaints of sexual harassment/assault at the workplace, and stipulate formation of committees to dispose off complaints from victims.

Dikshit admitted that there is still a sense of insecurity among women and collective efforts are required to address the problem.

Tejpal allegedly sexually assaulted a colleague in a Goa hotel where Tehelka had organised its Think Fest earlier this month. The incident, which came to light Wednesday night, led to Tejpal stepping down from his post for six months.