Chg: ST commission for CID probe into 'rape' of tribal women

National Commission for Scheduled Tribes today recommended Chhattisgarh government to launch a CID enquiry into allegations of rape and assault of tribal women by security forces in insurgency-hit Bijapur district last year.
The chairperson of the commission, Rameshwar Oraon made recommendations in this regard while chairing a meeting of senior state officials at Circuit House here.
"We have recommended a probe by the state's CID into rape charges on security forces by tribal women of Bijapur," Oraon told reporters after the meeting.
The commission had yesterday visited Bijapur and interacted with the women who had alleged that they were raped and thrashed by the joint security forces, comprising CRPF and district police forces, in Peddagellur, Chinnagelur and Pegdapalli villages of Basaguda block on October 19-20 when the security personnel were carrying out a search operation.

"We met seven victims who have confirmed the incident (of rape). We have also seen their medical report in which their charges appear to be true. Doctors have mentioned in the report that the women have injury marks on their back and legs and they were beaten up," he said.
When asked to clarify, Oraon said the medical reports do not say there was rape but the victims have confirmed it.

"The commission's role is to ensure a fair probe into the incident," he said.
Pushing for a CID probe, Oraon said the investigation by the district police may not yield a fair result as the forces, carrying out the operation, were led by the district police on the day of the incident.

"Therefore, the commission felt the need for a CID probe into the incident. We have recommended to state government for it and the officials in the meeting have assured of necessary action," he said, adding the meeting also explored ways to provide relief to the victims.