NHRC Requests Report on Septic Tank Fatalities in West Bengal
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The NHRC has demanded a report from West Bengal officials regarding two fatalities linked to toxic gas inhalation during septic tank cleaning in Purba Medinipur. The commission's investigation seeks to address the serious human rights violations involved.
Key Takeaways
- NHRC seeks urgent report from West Bengal.
- Two individuals died from toxic gas exposure.
- Report expected on investigation and compensation.
- Human rights violations highlighted by NHRC.
- Previous requests for reports on acid attacks in India.
New Delhi, Feb 20 (NationPress) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has requested a report within two weeks from the police and administration of Purba Medinipur district in West Bengal following the tragic deaths of two individuals due to toxic gas inhalation while cleaning a septic tank.
Acting on its own initiative after a media report surfaced on February 16, the NHRC noted that if the allegations are accurate, they indicate a significant breach of the victims' human rights.
The Commission has sent notices to the District Magistrate and the Superintendent of Police of Purba Medinipur, demanding a comprehensive report within the specified timeframe.
This report is anticipated to detail the investigation's current status and any compensation provided to the deceased's relatives.
Reportedly, two individuals lost their lives while two other family members fell ill after inhaling the toxic fumes during the septic tank cleaning in the Nandigram Block of Vekutia village.
The report indicated that one of the victims, who initially entered the tank, called for help after being overwhelmed by the poisonous gas.
In response to his cries, three family members attempted to rescue him but also succumbed to the toxic exposure. They were all swiftly transported to the hospital, where only two survived, according to the report.
Earlier this week, the NHRC sought detailed reports from the governments of West Bengal and Odisha regarding the rising number of acid attack incidents in their jurisdictions.
The Commission instructed the Chief Secretaries of both states to provide their reports within six weeks of the order's receipt.
This directive followed a petition by human rights advocate Radhakanta Tripathy, who highlighted several acid attack cases across Odisha, West Bengal, Delhi, and other regions of India, noting the ongoing deprivation of justice for acid attack survivors.
He urged the NHRC to advocate for justice, safety, security, compensation, and rehabilitation for these survivors.
In response to this matter, the NHRC issued a notice to relevant stakeholders, requesting an Action Taken Report on acid attack incidents, compensation processes, and preventive measures against such egregious acts on November 25, 2024.
Upon reviewing the reports, the NHRC expressed grave concerns regarding the failures of state governments to ensure a safe environment for citizens, particularly women.
