NHRC urges states, UTs to safeguard vulnerable from cold waves
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called upon 19 state governments and four Union Territory administrations to take proactive measures to protect vulnerable populations from the ongoing cold wave sweeping across several parts of India. The Commission emphasized that changing weather patterns due to climate change are increasingly impacting human rights, particularly those of the poor, elderly, and homeless.
Focus on protecting the most vulnerable
The NHRC highlighted that newborns, children, the elderly, the destitute, and those living without shelter are among the worst affected during harsh winter conditions. It urged authorities to ensure adequate shelter, medical support, and relief facilities to minimize health risks and fatalities linked to severe cold weather.
3,639 deaths reported from cold waves since 2019
Citing the*National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report titled ‘Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India,’ the Commission noted that 3,639 people have reportedly died due to cold wave exposure between 2019 and 2023. The NHRC underscored that these deaths highlight a serious gap in preventive and relief mechanisms during extreme weather events.
NDMA guidelines for cold wave management
In its advisory, the NHRC reiterated the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines to mitigate cold wave impacts. The recommendations include:
Establishing treatment protocols for cold-related illnesses;
Setting up day and night shelters for the homeless;
Providing medical care and implementing standard treatment procedures; and
Ensuring regular monitoring of relief operations and adopting a proactive response strategy.
Call for sensitisation and accountability
The Commission urged the sensitisation of officials responsible for relief and rehabilitation efforts. It also sought action taken reports from state and UT authorities, emphasizing that timely intervention and coordinated efforts are vital to prevent loss of life and uphold the dignity of vulnerable citizens during the cold wave crisis.
