NHRC to seek CBI enquiry into Tehelka expose on Gujarat riots

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Monday decided to direct a CBI inquiry into the accusations made in a sting operation carried out by a weekly newsmagazine, Tehelka, in connection with the 2002 Gujarat riots.

New Delhi, Nov 5 : The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Monday decided to direct a CBI inquiry into the accusations made in a sting operation carried out by a weekly newsmagazine, Tehelka, in connection with the 2002 Gujarat riots.

"The National Human Rights Commission has decided to direct an inquiry by the CBI into the whole episode in the light of accusations made in the programme "Operation Kalank" on the communal violence in Gujarat," the Commission said in a release.

The Commission's directive comes after it viewed the tape sent by the electronic channel, which was broadcast on October 25, 2007.

"The allegations had far-reaching implications and raised vital constitutional issues, which need to be promptly addressed in the interest of all," the Commission said.

The Gujarat government has been directed to communicate its consent for CBI investigation of the authenticity of the tapes and the allegations made therein to the Central government and the Commission within two weeks, the release said.

"If the investigation does not substantiate the allegations, it will help to clear the air," the Commission said, adding that "If, however, the allegations are found true after investigation, appropriate corrective action will have to be taken,".

Tehelka recently aired a sting operation, claiming that the 2002 massacre of Muslims in Gujarat were carried out "with the knowledge and sanction of Chief Minister Narendra Modi."

As per the programme "Operation Kalank" many State functionaries of Gujarat were accused of abetting and facilitating atrocities on the minority in the wake of Godhara violence in 2002.

ANI