Rights body urges public to report crimes, avoid abuse
The commission warned that such actions not only violate fundamental human rights but also undermine the rule of law.
The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has issued a plea to the public, urging them not to take justice into their own hands or punish individuals suspected of crimes.
The statement comes in the wake of public outrage over graphic videos circulating on social media, showing a man—reportedly accused of robbing a shop in K. Maafushi—being violently beaten and tortured by having paint poured all over his body.
In a press statement released Tuesday, the HRCM condemned both the act of violence and the public dissemination of videos showing such inhumane treatment. The commission warned that such actions not only violate fundamental human rights but also undermine the rule of law.
The statement emphasised that all criminal allegations should be handled by the proper authorities through the established legal process.
“In such cases, the issues should be referred to the relevant authorities within the prescribed procedure,” the commission stated.
The HRCM stressed the need for swift and fair investigations by the relevant law enforcement agencies and called for action to be taken in accordance with the law.
“No individual should violate the human rights and human dignity of others,” the statement added.
The commission also cautioned against sharing content that depicts or glorifies physical or psychological abuse, noting that such material can perpetuate a cycle of violence and desensitise the public to serious human rights violations.
The HRCM reiterated the importance of promoting peace and justice within the bounds of the legal system.
“Everyone is urged to promote peace and seek solutions within the legal framework in criminal or civil or other matters,” the commission concluded.
