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Supreme Court of India 2016-05-06 disposed

Nisha Priya Bhatia vs Ajit Seth & Ors

Bench: 2 — Madan B. Lokur

In Brief

A woman employee of a sensitive government organization complained of sexual harassment by her seniors. Two enquiry committees produced reports—one in May 2008 and another in January 2009. When she sought copies, the Union of India invoked state privilege under Sections 123-124 of the Evidence Act, claiming national security concerns. The Supreme Court held that sexual harassment enquiry reports cannot be withheld on such grounds, as they bear no relation to affairs of State or national security. The Court found nothing in the reports justifying withholding and directed that the appellant receive all reports and related documents, along with missing depositions and recordings within one week.

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Sexual Harassment Privilege Evidence Act Contempt of Court Administrative Law Right to Information

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