Chandigarh, Feb 19 (NationPress) The Haryana Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report concerning a tragic event at the Surajkund fair in Faridabad, where police Inspector Jagdish Prasad tragically lost his life during rescue efforts, resulting in injuries to several attendees.

The commission has not only requested reports from relevant authorities but has also recommended that posthumous recognition be given to the police officer who dedicated his life to public service.

The full commission, consisting of Chairperson Justice Lalit Batra and members Kuldip Jain and Deep Bhatia, noted that the circumstances surrounding the incident may reflect a potential violation of the fundamental right to life, safety, and human dignity as enshrined in Article 21 of the Constitution.

It emphasized that organizers of major public events and relevant authorities have a constitutional and legal obligation to rigorously uphold safety standards, with zero tolerance for negligence.

The commission further stated that a true representation of a “fair” is achieved only when it encompasses fairness in all aspects. This means that, in addition to cultural festivities, economic activities, and entertainment, equal attention must be given to safety, transparency, accountability, accessibility, and human dignity.

“If safety measures are overlooked or if visitors' lives are endangered, the event strays from its intended purpose and becomes unfair to the public,” it remarked.

The commission asserted that the joy of celebration is truly meaningful only when it occurs in a safe environment that upholds dignity and convenience for all, particularly for senior citizens, children, and individuals with disabilities.

To enhance safety at large gatherings such as the Surajkund International Crafts Mela, the commission has directed the state government to enforce a zero-tolerance policy regarding public safety. No fair, festival, or large public event should proceed without prior certification from a multidisciplinary technical committee, which should include structural engineers, electrical safety specialists, fire officers, and disaster management experts. Additionally, mandatory third-party safety audits of all rides, gates, stalls, and temporary structures are required.

Commission Assistant Registrar Puneet Arora announced that the Deputy Commissioner of Faridabad has been instructed to present a comprehensive report within four weeks, detailing the findings of the inquiry committee, the status of the FIR, and actions taken against those responsible.

The Director General of Police is also tasked with submitting a report regarding the events leading to Inspector Jagdish Prasad’s death, any compensation provided or proposed for his dependents, and measures implemented to ensure the safety of police personnel at large public events.