NHRC Slams Negligence After Fatal Incidents Across India, Issues Notices in 7 Cases

New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognizance of seven separate incidents across multiple states involving deaths, injuries, and alleged negligence, ranging from sewer deaths and industrial accidents to child fatalities and crimes against women. The Commission has issued notices to concerned authorities, seeking detailed reports within two weeks while raising serious concerns over recurring violations of basic human rights and safety norms.

Sewer deaths in Haryana raise questions on safety compliance

In Haryana’s Nuh district, two sanitation workers died and another was injured after inhaling toxic gases while cleaning a sewer line without protective gear. The NHRC noted that despite Supreme Court guidelines mandating mechanised cleaning and safety equipment, such incidents continue to occur. Authorities have been asked to report on the investigation, medical condition of the injured worker, and compensation to victims’ families.

Four children drown in Maharashtra construction site

In a tragic incident in Nanded district, Maharashtra, four children drowned in a water-filled pit near an ongoing drain construction site. The Commission observed lapses in safety measures at the site and has sought a report detailing accountability, compensation to families, and preventive steps.

Odisha hostel tragedy: Stale food claims young life

A 12-year-old boy died and over 100 students fell ill after consuming allegedly contaminated food at a government-run residential school in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha. The NHRC has directed state authorities to provide details on the health status of affected students and the ongoing investigation into food safety lapses.

Chhattisgarh boiler explosion kills 13 workers

At least 13 workers lost their lives and 20 others sustained injuries following a boiler tube explosion at a thermal power plant in Sakti district, Chhattisgarh. The NHRC has sought a comprehensive report on compensation, medical care for the injured, and safety compliance at the facility.

School gate collapse kills two girls in Odisha

In Gajapati district, Odisha, two girl students died after an iron gate of a government primary school collapsed on them. The Commission has raised concerns over infrastructure safety in schools and asked officials to submit a detailed report on the incident and preventive measures.

Woman publicly humiliated in Madhya Pradesh

In Jhabua district, Madhya Pradesh, a woman was allegedly paraded and humiliated by villagers over accusations of elopement. The NHRC termed the incident a serious violation of human dignity and has sought details on the investigation, arrests, and support extended to the victim.

Firecracker factory blast in Tamil Nadu claims 18 lives

In Virudhunagar district, Tamil Nadu, at least 18 workers died and several others were injured in an explosion at a private firecracker unit. The NHRC highlighted recurring industrial safety violations in the region and has demanded a report on compensation, treatment of the injured, and regulatory oversight.

NHRC raises concern over recurring negligence

Across all seven incidents, the Commission has emphasized that repeated lapses—whether in industrial safety, civic infrastructure, or protection of vulnerable groups—point to systemic failures. It has reiterated the need for strict adherence to safety norms, accountability of authorities, and timely compensation to victims.

Call for accountability and preventive action

The NHRC’s intervention underscores the urgent need for improved governance, enforcement of safety regulations, and proactive measures to prevent such tragedies. The Commission’s findings in these cases are expected to guide further action to safeguard human rights and ensure justice for the victims and their families.