New Delhi, The National Commission for Women (NCW) has called for immediate action against Ahmad K., a Delhi resident, for making a derogatory comment about Smriti Singh, the widow of Kirti Chakra awardee Captain Anshuman Singh. The NCW condemned the comment and demanded that the Delhi Police arrest Ahmad K. and submit a detailed report within three days.
Background
Captain Anshuman Singh, recognized for his bravery during a fire incident at the Siachen Glacier, was posthumously awarded the Kirti Chakra, India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award. His widow, Smriti Singh, has been subjected to public scrutiny and inappropriate comments, with the latest incident drawing widespread condemnation.
The Incident
Ahmad K. posted a lewd and inappropriate comment on a photo of Smriti Singh, which was shared on social media. The NCW identified the comment and wrote to the Delhi Police Commissioner, urging immediate action against Ahmad K. for his crude behavior.
Legal Framework
The NCW’s letter to the Delhi Police outlined the legal provisions violated by Ahmad K.’s actions. The incident breaches:
Section 79 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023: This section addresses words, gestures, or acts intended to insult the modesty of a woman. The law prescribes imprisonment for up to three years and a fine for such offenses.
Section 67 of the Information Technology Act, 2000: This section pertains to publishing or transmitting obscene material in electronic form, with penalties including imprisonment for up to three years and fines up to five lakh rupees for the first conviction, and up to five years of imprisonment and fines up to ten lakh rupees for subsequent convictions.
NCW’s Response
Rekha Sharma, Chairperson of the NCW, has instructed the Delhi Police Commissioner to ensure the arrest of Ahmad K. and a thorough investigation into the matter. The NCW’s letter emphasized the necessity of swift police intervention to uphold the dignity and rights of women.
“The Commission strongly condemns such crude language and comments directed at a woman. Considering the seriousness of the issue, the concerned police official should invoke the relevant provisions in the FIR against the accused, Ahmad K., along with other pertinent laws,” the NCW stated.
Public and Legal Reactions
The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with many users expressing solidarity with Smriti Singh and calling for strict action against Ahmad K. Legal experts have also highlighted the importance of upholding the dignity of individuals, especially those who have made significant sacrifices for the nation.
The Importance of Respect and Decorum
This case underscores the need for maintaining respect and decorum in public discourse, particularly when discussing sensitive topics like war, sacrifice, and personal loss. Public figures and their families often face undue scrutiny and inappropriate comments, which can exacerbate their grief and suffering.
