What Actions Will Tamil Nadu DGP Take Regarding Alleged Negligence in Chennai Air Show Tragedy?
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Synopsis
The NHRC's investigation into the Tamil Nadu DGP highlights alarming negligence during the IAF air show in Chennai, where serious mismanagement led to fatalities and injuries. This incident raises critical questions about public safety and accountability in large-scale events.
Key Takeaways
- NHRC demands accountability from Tamil Nadu DGP.
- Serious lapses in crowd management reported.
- Five fatalities and over 200 hospitalizations occurred.
- Emergency services overwhelmed during the event.
- Preventive measures are crucial for future events.
New Delhi, May 23 (NationPress) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has formally requested a report from the Director General of Police (DGP) of Tamil Nadu concerning alleged negligence during the Indian Air Force (IAF) air show that took place at Marina Beach, Chennai, in October 2024.
This action follows a complaint alleging significant lapses in planning and crowd control, resulting in five fatalities and over 200 hospitalizations during the event.
The air show, held on October 6, 2024, to celebrate the IAF’s 92nd anniversary, drew tens of thousands of attendees. However, the gathering quickly spiraled into chaos due to overcrowding, mismanagement, extreme heat, and insufficient amenities, particularly drinking water and shaded areas.
In its proceedings dated May 23, the NHRC indicated it received a complaint on October 10, 2024, naming the Greater Chennai City Commissioner of Police. The complainant, an advocate, accused senior police officials of gross negligence and misuse of authority, demanding a thorough inquiry and disciplinary measures.
The complaint stated, “five individuals lost their lives due to negligence and alleged misuse of authority,” while many others suffered “physical injuries and mental trauma owing to the mismanagement during the air show.”
Witnesses reported that elderly attendees and children stood in direct sunlight for hours during the show, which ran from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., without adequate medical support or shaded areas.
A substantial number of attendees reportedly fainted even before the event commenced. Emergency services were overwhelmed as more than 200 spectators were taken to nearby government hospitals suffering from dehydration, heatstroke, and exhaustion.
Taking suo motu cognizance, the NHRC has instructed the Tamil Nadu DGP to provide a comprehensive report within four weeks, detailing the actions taken in response to these allegations and the preventive measures that will be introduced to prevent future incidents.
Point of View
It is crucial to emphasize that accountability in public safety is paramount. The NHRC's actions reflect a commitment to uphold the rights of citizens, ensuring that negligence is addressed and preventive measures are established for future events. The tragic outcomes from the Chennai air show should serve as a critical lesson in effective crowd management.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the NHRC's investigation into the Chennai air show?
The NHRC's investigation was initiated following a complaint alleging negligence and mismanagement during the IAF air show that resulted in fatalities and numerous injuries.
What were the main issues reported during the air show?
The air show suffered from overcrowding, inadequate facilities, extreme heat, and poor crowd management, leading to five deaths and over 200 hospitalizations.
What is the NHRC's directive to the Tamil Nadu DGP?
The NHRC has instructed the Tamil Nadu DGP to submit a detailed report within four weeks addressing the allegations and outlining preventive measures for future events.
How did the public react to the air show incident?
Eyewitness accounts described chaotic scenes where attendees, including vulnerable groups, were left without adequate support, prompting widespread concern and calls for accountability.
What measures are expected to be implemented following this incident?
The NHRC expects the Tamil Nadu DGP to outline specific actions taken in response to the incident and propose preventive strategies to avoid similar occurrences in the future.
