National Human Rights Commission: The NHRC has taken suo motu cognizance of media reports about the stamping of castes on the bare chests of aspiring constables from the reserved categories during their medical examination at the Dhar district hospital in Madhya Pradesh. Reportedly, the caste stamps were used to avoid any kind of confusion among candidates, as height and chest measurement norms are different for constables belonging to general and reserved categories. However, candidates from the general category were not labeled.
The Commission has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, Madhya Pradesh calling for a detailed report in the matter along with action taken against the delinquent officers, within four weeks.
The Commission has observed that the contents of the media reports, carried on the 30th April, 2018, if true, indicate discriminatory and derogatory treatment meted out to the candidates, belonging to the reserved categories. Such despicable act on the part of the authorities cannot be tolerated under any circumstances in a civilized society, as it is tantamount to violation of right to equality and dignity.
National Human Rights Commission
