In a shocking incident, whistleblower and activist ‘Savukku’ Shankar’s residence was attacked following his exposure of an alleged scam in the distribution of jet-rodding machine-equipped vehicles under a government scheme. The scheme, sponsored by both central and state governments, was designed to uplift Dalit entrepreneurs, particularly marginalized scavengers, by providing resources to enhance their livelihoods. However, Shankar’s findings revealed that approximately 130 beneficiaries of the scheme were ineligible, suggesting misallocation of resources and corruption. His revelations also implicated a senior Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) leader in facilitating and benefiting from the corruption.

On March 24, 2025, at around 9:45 AM, a mob of approximately 20 individuals, dressed as sanitary workers, stormed Shankar’s residence. When his mother, Ms. Kamala, who was alone at home, did not open the door, the attackers forcibly entered the house. They ransacked the property and poured sewage mixed with human excreta across various rooms, including the hall, bedroom, and kitchen. The mob recorded the attack and later made a video call to Shankar, showing him the destruction they had inflicted.

The attackers also issued a grave warning, threatening to set the house on fire in the future. Ms. Kamala, terrified and unable to defend herself, stated that when she attempted to call her son, the assailants snatched her phone and used it to make the video call. CCTV footage of the incident has reportedly been submitted as evidence.

This attack is a blatant violation of fundamental rights, including the right to life, liberty, dignity, and freedom of speech and expression, as enshrined in Articles 19 and 21 of the Indian Constitution. As a whistleblower exposing corruption within the government, Shankar has played a critical role in defending the rights of manual scavengers, positioning himself as a human rights defender. Given the severity of the incident, this case calls for immediate intervention by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to ensure justice and protection for Shankar and his family.

Hence,  we urgently appeal to you to exercise Section 12 (a) of the Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2019, and take suo moto cognizance of this incident and initiate an independent inquiry through NHRC’s investigation wing.