Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source Internet
Shimla, Nov 3,
Public outrage continues to intensify in Himachal Pradesh’s Chamba district as fresh allegations of harassment and intimidation surface against Churah MLA and former Assembly Speaker Hans Raj. In a significant development, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA) have stepped in to seek justice for the 21-year-old woman who has accused the legislator of sexual exploitation and mental harassment.
A CPI(M) delegation led by former MLA Rakesh Singha met the Engineer-in-Chief (ENC) of the Jal Shakti Vibhag near ISBT Shimla. The delegation plans raised the alleged disconnection of water supply to the victim’s residence in Chamba — an act the party described as “institutional harassment” aimed at silencing the complainant’s family. As per information given leftist party member, the ENC has directed the relevant authority to restore the water connection now.
In parallel, an AIDWA team visited the State Women’s Commission in Chamba’s Churah constituency to press for urgent intervention and protection measures for the victim. The delegation will also demand accountability from police officials accused of shielding the MLA and coercing the young woman to withdraw her complaint.
After the victim’s video surfaced on social media, the Himachal Pradesh State Women’s Commission has taken suo motu cognizance of the matter and sought a report from the Superintendent of Police (SP), Chamba.
Speaking to a media website Reporter’s Eye, Commission Chairperson Vidya Negi confirmed that the body acted after reviewing the viral video and has requested details of the investigation from the police. She added that while the Commission has spoken to the woman’s father, it has not yet received a formal complaint from the victim herself.
Negi assured that the Commission is closely monitoring the developments and will ensure that “no injustice is allowed to occur.” She further stated that if the woman approaches the Commission directly, it would provide her full support and assistance in pursuing justice.
On Sunday evening, Rakesh Singha went live on social media, reacting to a viral video released by the victim, in which she alleged ongoing intimidation and threats. Expressing anguish, Singha said he had already sought a clarification from the Chamba district administration and urged authorities to “come forward with the truth” about the incident.
“Our party stands firmly with the oppressed,” Singha stated. “If it is found that the girl or her family is being harassed, CPI(M) will ensure they receive protection and justice.”
The involvement of CPI(M) and AIDWA marks an escalation in the case that has been simmering since 2024, when the woman first lodged a complaint of harassment against the MLA. The renewed intervention by political and women’s rights groups underscores growing public concern over alleged police inaction and political shielding.
Meanwhile, civil society groups and student unions in the region have also begun voicing solidarity with the victim, calling for a transparent and time-bound investigation into the matter. The Chamba administration is yet to issue an official statement regarding the allegations or the reported disconnection of water supply.
As pressure mounts, all eyes are now on how the government and law enforcement respond to the mounting calls for justice in a case that has once again placed the spotlight on power misuse and gender justice in Himachal’s political landscape.
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