Women’s panel seeks report on harassment allegations against BJP MLA

Taking serious note of harassment allegations levelled by a woman against BJP MLA from Churah, Dr Hans Raj, the Himachal Pradesh State Commission for Women has sought a detailed report from the Superintendent of Police (SP), Chamba. The commission has also directed that a ground-level investigation be carried out and security be provided to the complainant if her safety is at risk.

Vidya Negi, Chairperson of the commission, said videos of the woman making grave accusations against the MLA have surfaced on social media. “The woman has alleged that she and her family are being harassed and threatened by the MLA. After learning of the matter, I immediately spoke to the Chamba SP and directed appropriate action,” she stated.

Negi added that the commission has also received a written complaint from the All-India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA), demanding justice for the woman and an impartial probe. “We have forwarded the complaint to the Chamba SP for necessary action,” she said, emphasising that police protection must be provided if the woman’s life is indeed under threat.

The controversy erupted after the woman went live on social media, accusing the MLA of intimidation and repeated threats. Notably, the same woman had lodged a complaint against Dr Hans Raj last year, alleging that he had sent her obscene messages and issued threats. She, however, withdrew those allegations later, citing mental stress and external pressure.

Meanwhile, MLA Hans Raj has dismissed the fresh charges, terming them a “politically motivated conspiracy” aimed at inciting communal tension in the region. He maintained that the allegations are baseless and intended to malign his image.