Why Has the OHRC Issued a Bailable Arrest Warrant Against the Principal Secretary?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, the Odisha Human Rights Commission has issued a bailable arrest warrant against a senior IAS officer over the tragic death of a minor student. The case highlights critical issues of negligence and accountability within the education system in Odisha, raising questions about the responsibilities of officials towards vulnerable children.
Key Takeaways
- OHRC issues bailable arrest warrant against senior IAS officer for negligence.
- Minor student's death raises serious questions about accountability.
- Financial compensation of Rs 10 lakhs demanded for the victim's family.
- Inquiry led to suspensions and administrative actions.
- Importance of reforms in the education system highlighted.
Bhubaneswar, July 11 (NationPress) The Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) has issued a bailable arrest warrant against Sanjeeb Kumar Mishra, a senior IAS officer and Principal Secretary of the ST & SC Development department.
This warrant comes as a result of his failure to adhere to the commission's directives concerning the tragic death of a seven-year-old girl, who was a student at a government residential school in Budrukia, located in the Baliguda Block of Kandhamal district, due to alleged negligence by school authorities under the ST & SC Development department.
Following the media coverage of the minor girl's death, which was reportedly due to local officials' negligence, prominent human rights advocate Prabir Kumar Das filed a petition with the OHRC. He sought accountability from the officials responsible for the incident and demanded financial compensation of Rs 10 lakhs for the bereaved family.
According to the OHRC's directives, the principal secretary of the ST & SC Development department failed to submit a fact-finding report about the media allegations, despite multiple orders issued on 04.07.2024, 04.10.2024, 28.01.2025, and 22.04.2025.
Due to this non-compliance, the commission summoned the secretary of the ST/SC development department on June 3, 2025, directing him to appear in person on July 4, 2025. However, the Secretary to the Government of Odisha, ST & SC Development Department failed to attend.
In light of these circumstances, the commission has issued a bailable arrest warrant for Sanjeeb Kumar Mishra, amounting to Rs.10,000/- (Rupees ten thousand), along with one solvent surety of the same amount. The warrant is to be executed by the DCP, Bhubaneswar UPD, and it instructs him to appear in person on 12.08.2025 at 11 A.M. to explain why he did not comply with the commission's orders.
Rights activists have reported that the deceased student was diagnosed with Malaria on June 25, 2024, during a health team's routine check at her school hostel. Unfortunately, her condition worsened, and she was taken to a hospital in Baliguda, where she was declared dead on June 26, 2024.
A joint inquiry by the project administrator of the Integrated Tribal Development Agency, the district welfare officer, and the sub-divisional medical officer in Baliguda was conducted to investigate the cause of the student's death.
Following the inquiry report, the district administration reportedly suspended the Assistant Superintendent of the residential school and transferred the hostel matron due to negligence. Additionally, the Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) of Kandhamal was instructed to issue a show cause notice to the Community Health Officer who had conducted the check-up but failed to test the student for anaemia.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the gravity of this situation. The issuance of a bailable arrest warrant against a senior official underscores the urgent need for accountability and reform within the education sector. The tragic loss of a young life due to negligence is a wake-up call that must not be ignored. It is essential for authorities to prioritize the safety and well-being of students, ensuring that such incidents are prevented in the future.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the issuance of the arrest warrant?
The arrest warrant was issued due to the failure of Principal Secretary Sanjeeb Kumar Mishra to comply with OHRC orders related to the investigation of a minor student's death.
What is the background of the case?
The case involves the death of a seven-year-old girl at a government residential school, allegedly due to negligence on the part of local officials.
What actions were taken by the OHRC?
The OHRC issued multiple orders for a fact-finding report, summoned the principal secretary, and ultimately issued a bailable arrest warrant due to non-compliance.
What were the findings of the inquiry conducted?
The inquiry led to the suspension of the Assistant Superintendent of the school and the transfer of the hostel matron for negligence in care of the student.
What implications does this case have for the education system?
This case highlights serious issues of accountability and the need for reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of students in government institutions.
