New Delhi, Oct 23 (IANS) The National Commission for Women has sought a report and directed the state police to conduct a time-bound investigation into a reported incident in which a Muslim teenage girl in Uttar Pradesh was shot in the head by her father for opposing a forced arranged marriage, an official said on Friday.
“No one has the right to dictate a woman’s choice of partner through violence. Honour-based violence and attempts to silence women through fear will not be tolerated. A woman’s right to life, dignity and freedom of choice must be upheld without exception,” wrote the Commission on X.
Shazia was shot in the head by her father, Asin Khan, while she was asleep at their home in Mainpuri, according to media reports.
The NCW has taken suo motu cognisance of the reports regarding the horrific attempt on the life of a 19-year-old and sought an Action Taken Report (ATR) from state authorities within seven days, said a statement.
She was allegedly shot for opposing a forced arranged marriage and asserting her right to choose her life partner. She is currently undergoing critical treatment at Saifai Medical College.
NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has written to the Director General of Police (DGP), Uttar Pradesh, seeking a swift and time-bound investigation, strict action under applicable provisions of the BNS and preservation of all ballistic and forensic evidence, the Commission wrote on X.
“The Commission has also called for specialised medical treatment, security for the survivor and her mother, legal assistance and compensation, along with expeditious prosecution,” the NCW said.
Earlier, in a message on X, Rahatkar reiterated the commitment to women’s dignity, safety, justice, and empowerment, an official said.
Rahatkar set a target to remain focused on expanding the Commission’s reach, reaching women who face barriers in accessing justice.
“Our commitment to women’s dignity, safety, justice, and empowerment will remain unwavering. With this resolve for women’s empowerment, we will all continue to move forward together,” she wrote on X.
–IANS
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