NEW DELHI, Mar 14: Voicing concern over lax security arrangements at juvenile observation homes in the city, the National Human Rights Commission today recommended that the Delhi Police conduct a review of all homes and ensure proper safety arrangements there.
The directions have come against the backdrop of an investigation carried out by the Commission at Seva Kutir Juvenile Home in North Delhi, where a spate of violent incidents and cases of drug and sexual abuse among inmates were reported last year.
Taken suo motu cognisance of media reports, NHRC has conducted a surprise inspection of the home and found the private agency, entrusted with security of Seva Kutir, had failed in its duty to stop entry of contraband and surgical blades, which were used in several violent incidents inside the Home.
The Commission has asked the Delhi Government to submit an action taken report in this case within six weeks.
It has also directed the private agency to ensure proper deployment of security personnel as per the strength and guidelines recommended by the Delhi Police.
Over 30 juveniles had escaped from Seva Kutir in December last year after going on a rampage, burning furniture and other property.
NHRC’s investigation, which confirmed the incidents of drug abuse, sexual assault and violence, found that some juveniles used to take drugs and managed to sneak in some tablets or tobacco inside the Home, indicating lapse in screening of visitors or juveniles at the time of their entry in the Home.
The allegations of physical harassment, intimidation and sexual abuse by some juveniles were also found to be true by the inspection team.
“Such tormentors were primarily repeat offenders and those transferred from Tihar and Rohini Jail on account of their age,” the team has observed.
It was also found that the security staff at the Juvenile Home was worried about their own safety as some of them were attacked by juveniles.
Out of 34 staff posted, 18 were on contractual basis and non-disbursement of pay on time, besides temporary status were found to be de-motivating factors. (PTI)
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