In a significant plea for justice, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu is being urged to take strong action against anti-women elements, specifically targeting Mr. K.G. Butail, the Chairman of Rotary Eye Hospital, Maranda

A highly qualified and respectable woman from Palampur has filed a serious complaint against Mr. K.G. Butail, the Chairman of the Rotary Eye Foundation, Maranda (Palampur), with the National Commission for Women (NCW).

The allegations include gender-based discrimination, mental harassment, abuse of power, and intentional harm to her status, reputation, and dignity.

The complaint describes Mr. Butail’s behavior as inappropriate and demeaning, calling for a thorough investigation and appropriate action against him.

In the wake of these allegations, there are increasing calls for intervention by Himachal Pradesh’s caretaker Chief Minister, Thakur Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu. Many are urging him to take decisive and powerful action against individuals like K.G. Butail, who are accused of anti-women behavioir, to safeguard the respect and integrity of women in the state. Such intervention would send a strong message that the government stands firmly against any form of harassment and discrimination, ensuring that the rights and dignity of women remain protected in a calm and peaceful state like Himachal Pradesh.

This complaint has become a significant voice for women’s safety and respect, sparking broader concerns about accountability and protection against harassment.

The NCW, after reviewing the complaint, has directed the victim to proceed with filing a criminal case against Mr. Butail, emphasizing that the nature of the allegations extends beyond a mere civil dispute.

The Commission noted that the situation involves potential abuse of power and mental harassment, requiring a criminal investigation to ensure justice.

The woman initially sought resolution within the governing body of the Rotary Eye Foundation. Despite her attempts over 50 days, including registered letters and multiple phone calls, the governing members failed to provide any written response or clarification regarding Mr. Butail’s actions.

Frustrated by this lack of support, she turned to the NCW, which has now urged her to take legal action.

In a statement, the victim said, “I did not want to escalate this matter, but the lack of response and the unjust treatment left me with no other choice. With the backing of the National Commission for Women, I am now determined to fight for justice and to expose the inappropriate behavior of K.G. Butail.” She stressed that this battle is not just for her own dignity but for the rights and respect of all women who face similar challenges.

The NCW’s directive further highlights that the issue is not only about internal conflicts within a charitable institution but also concerns larger societal values of respect and fairness towards women.

By encouraging criminal proceedings, the Commission aims to ensure that the matter is addressed comprehensively and that those in positions of power are held accountable for their actions.

This case has brought K.G. Butail’s leadership under scrutiny, casting a shadow over his role in a well-known charitable hospital that was once built up from a small

establishment by its visionary founder, the late Dr. Shiv Kumar. Despite the growth of the Rotary Eye Foundation into a prominent institution in northern India, Dr. Kumar’s legacy of integrity has been called into question by the recent controversies surrounding Mr. Butail.

Dr. Shiv Kumar, the founder of the Rotary Eye Hospital and several other social welfare institutions, was known for his ability to resolve issues before they escalated, maintaining the institution’s dignity. However, after his sudden demise, the individual who succeeded him, Mr. Butail, has been criticized for a different approach, marked by alleged authoritarianism and lack of respect for others.

In addition to the allegations against him, there were murmurs about unresolved personal conflicts between Mr. Butail and the late Dr. Shiv Kumar. This speculation grew stronger after Mr. Butail withdrew from a public promise to install six statues of Dr. Shiv Kumar within a month. Three years have passed since Dr. Kumar’s death, yet no statue of the hospital’s founder has been placed in either the hospital premises or the Rotary Building Complex in Palampur, raising further questions about Mr. Butail’s intentions.

The recent complaint has shaken the foundation’s leadership, as it questions not only Mr. Butail’s actions but also the silence of the governing body members.

The lack of written responses from the board members to the woman’s concerns has painted a picture of an institution where power dynamics are unbalanced, and accountability is lacking.

The victim, now determined to seek justice, stated that the absence of action from the governing body forced her to approach the NCW.

It is worth mentioning here that NCW’s involvement has lent significant weight to her allegations, stressing the importance of addressing such issues through legal channels to ensure that justice is served.

This development has turned the spotlight onto the Rotary Eye Foundation, challenging its public image and raising questions about its internal governance.

As the NCW supports the victim’s fight for justice, the call for transparency and respect within such institutions has become louder.

The legal proceedings against K.G. Butail may serve as a turning point, ensuring that the dignity and safety of individuals—especially women—are safeguarded within charitable and social organizations.

The incident has not only become a personal battle for the woman but also a broader issue that highlights the need for ethical leadership in institutions, reminding society that those in power must be held accountable for their actions.

With the NCW’s support and legal proceedings on the horizon, the case is expected to be closely watched, potentially setting a precedent for how similar complaints are addressed in the future.