New Delhi, March 31 The National Commission for Women took cognizance of a news report on Tuesday regarding the alleged rape of a six-year-old girl in Ghazipur district, Uttar Pradesh, and the delay in providing her medical treatment.
Commission Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has written to the state's principal secretary for medical health and family welfare, directing that the survivor be provided immediate and free treatment.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has sought a detailed report on the action taken within seven days.
Citing media reports, the commission said the incident took place in a village under the Nandganj police station area, where the minor was allegedly raped.
The girl was taken to a hospital in a serious condition, but she did not receive timely treatment, and her family had to move from one hospital to another for several hours, the NCW said.
Expressing concern over the incident and the alleged negligence, the commission said the case raises serious questions about children's safety and accountability in the healthcare system.
"While expressing deep concern over this heinous crime as well as the alleged negligence in treatment, the commission has described it as raising serious questions about the accountability of the child protection and health systems," the NCW wrote on X.
The commission has also sought strict action against officials responsible for the alleged delay and negligence, and directed that all hospitals be instructed to follow prescribed guidelines for the prompt treatment of victims of sexual offences.