What Actions is NHRC Taking Regarding the Fire at Jaipur’s Sawai Man Singh Hospital?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The NHRC's swift response to the tragic fire incident at Sawai Man Singh Hospital underscores the critical need for accountability in healthcare safety. With eight lives lost and many more affected, the pressure mounts on authorities to ensure justice and enhance safety protocols.
Key Takeaways
- The NHRC has acknowledged the tragic fire incident.
- Eight patients have lost their lives due to this disaster.
- The Rajasthan government is conducting an investigation.
- Serious questions about healthcare safety have emerged.
- The NHRC aims to ensure accountability and justice for victims.
New Delhi, Oct 14 (NationPress) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report indicating that eight patients lost their lives and three others sustained critical injuries due to a fire at the trauma centre ICU in the government-operated Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital located in Jaipur, Rajasthan.
As reported on October 6, 18 patients were present in the ICU and semi-ICU wards when the fire erupted. The intense flames and hazardous smoke reportedly hindered rescue efforts.
The incident at the largest hospital in Jaipur raises significant concerns regarding administrative readiness and the health infrastructure of the state.
The Rajasthan government has mandated the establishment of a high-level investigative committee. In light of the occurrence, the NHRC noted that, if the report holds true, it raises severe concerns about the human rights violations experienced by the victims.
The leading human rights organization has issued notices to the Chief Secretary of Rajasthan and the Director General of Police, requesting a comprehensive report on the situation within two weeks. This report should include the status of any compensation provided to the victims' next of kin.
Founded under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, the NHRC operates as an independent statutory entity, symbolizing India's commitment to promoting and safeguarding human rights.
Its core mission is to defend and advance human rights, which include the rights to life, liberty, equality, and dignity, as guaranteed by the Constitution and recognized in international covenants enforceable by Indian courts.
The apex human rights body possesses the authority to take suo motu action based on media reports, public awareness, or other sources, without the necessity of a formal complaint regarding human rights abuses.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight that the NHRC's actions reflect a necessary commitment to human rights. The tragic fire at Sawai Man Singh Hospital raises essential questions about the safety protocols in place. It is crucial that we hold authorities accountable while advocating for the rights and welfare of patients across the nation. The call for an investigation must be met with transparency and urgency.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire at Sawai Man Singh Hospital?
The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation by the authorities.
What actions has the NHRC taken?
The NHRC has taken suo motu cognisance of the incident and issued notices to state officials for a detailed report.
How many patients were affected?
The fire resulted in the deaths of eight patients and left three others critically injured.
What is being done to ensure safety in hospitals?
The Rajasthan government has formed a high-level investigation committee to assess the incident and enhance safety protocols.
What are the human rights implications of this incident?
The NHRC has raised concerns about potential human rights violations experienced by the victims.
