NHRC probes death of three children in Meerut builder pit

New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has initiated an inquiry into the deaths of three children who drowned in an open six-foot-deep pit allegedly left unattended by a builder in a newly developed colony in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, earlier this week.

Children drown in builder’s negligence

According to reports, the tragic incident occurred on 3 August 2025, when three children, aged between 8 and 9 years, fell into a rainwater-filled pit while returning from a shop after buying chocolate. The pit, dug about 40 days ago for construction work, had been left open and unbarricaded by the builder.

NHRC takes suo motu cognisance

The NHRC, terming the reported facts as a serious human rights violation, took suo motu cognisance of a media report published on 5 August 2025. The Commission has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh, seeking a detailed report within two weeks.

Report to cover investigation and compensation

The NHRC has directed that the state’s report should include the current status of the police investigation and details of any compensation provided to the victims’ families. It emphasised the responsibility of authorities to ensure accountability in cases of negligence leading to loss of innocent lives.

Pit left open for over a month

The media report stated that the builder had dug the pit nearly 40 days earlier during building construction in the colony and failed to take safety measures. Monsoon rains subsequently filled the pit, creating a hidden danger that proved fatal for the children.