SHRC seeks records on meal centre death

By K. T. Sangameswaran

CHENNAI, AUG. 8. Viewing seriously the allegation of death of a three-year-old boy at a nutritious meal centre in Dharmapuri district after he was allegedly hit by two workers there, the State Human Rights Commission has directed the police to produce an FIR copy and other relevant records by August 16. It has also directed two `ayahs' (workers) of the centre to file their reply.

In his complaint, Mr. Govindasamy of Saanipatti in Pochampalli taluk, said his child, Velan, was dragged and hit by two workers at the balwadi - where he had gone as usual to take food - and the boy fainted. The child was first rushed to a private hospital and from there taken to the Government Hospital at Tirupattur, as his condition turned serious. The boy died three days later. Following a complaint, the Mathur police registered a case. He sought action against those responsible for his son's death and also a payment of Rs. 2 lakhs as compensation.

The `ayahs', Ms. Rukku and Ms. Baby, and the Collector were cited as respondents.

When the Commission member, Mr. (Justice) K. Swamidurai, sought his version, the Collector submitted that the ayahs had been placed under suspension and further action would be taken after the trial court pronounced its verdict in the case registered by the police. Not satisfied with the reply, the SHRC directed the Collector to send a further report about the action taken by the police.

But the Collector sent a ``bald report'' which did not assist the Commission. It did not contain details of the nature of the police case, the crime number, legal provisions under which it was registered, etc, Commission sources said.

The Commission directed the Inspector of Police and the ayahs to appear before the Commission on August 6. They turned up. The inspector was not present.

Following this, the police Inspector has been directed to produce the FIR copy and other relevant records.

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Section  : Southern States
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