NHRC Closes Electrocution Death Case After Ensuring Compensation for Victim's Family: A Step Towards Accountability

 The People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) acknowledges the conclusion of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) proceedings in Case No. 3231/4/28/2024, concerning the tragic electrocution incident that occurred in Dhankhada village, Sasaram (Rohtas), Bihar on 5 August 2024.

The complaint was filed by Lenin Raghuvanshi, Founder-Convener of PVCHR, on 6 August 2024, seeking an impartial inquiry into the death of Smt. Nisha Devi and injuries sustained by Smt. Babita Devi, who came into contact with a snapped live electric wire while cutting grass. The complaint alleged negligence on the part of the Electricity Department in maintaining the power infrastructure and demanded justice, accountability, and adequate compensation for the victims. The complaint details are reflected in the NHRC online diary.

NHRC's Timely Intervention

Recognizing the seriousness of the matter, the NHRC took cognizance of the complaint on 21 August 2024 and sought Action Taken Reports from the Energy Department, Government of Bihar, and the Superintendent of Police, Rohtas.

Following the Commission's directions, the South Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (SBPDCL) conducted an inquiry through the competent authority. The inquiry confirmed that:

• Smt. Nisha Devi died due to electrocution.
• Smt. Babita Devi sustained burn injuries during the same incident.

Based on the inquiry, the Executive Engineer, Electricity Supply Division, Dehri, sanctioned ₹4,00,000 as ex gratia compensation to Shri Nand Baitha, husband and dependent of the deceased, through Office Order No. 366 dated 7 December 2024.

Regarding the injured victim, Smt. Babita Devi, the competent authority concluded that she had not suffered permanent physical disability as defined under the applicable compensation policy. Consequently, her claim for ex gratia compensation was rejected.

After examining the reports, the NHRC observed that the respondent authorities had taken appropriate action under the existing policy framework and therefore closed the case on 6 August 2026, stating that no further intervention of the Commission was required.

Justice Beyond Compensation

While the payment of compensation to the bereaved family is an important outcome, the incident once again highlights the urgent need for preventive action rather than merely post-incident relief.

Electrocution deaths caused by unattended or damaged electricity lines are preventable. Such incidents disproportionately affect rural communities, particularly women engaged in agricultural work and daily livelihood activities.

Public authorities must strengthen:

• Regular inspection and maintenance of electricity infrastructure.
• Prompt removal and repair of fallen or damaged power lines.
• Community-based reporting mechanisms for electrical hazards.
• Accountability for negligence that places citizens' lives at risk.

PVCHR's Commitment

This case demonstrates how timely intervention by citizens and civil society can ensure institutional accountability. Although the Commission has concluded its proceedings, PVCHR believes that every such tragedy should serve as a reminder that the right to life includes the right to safe public infrastructure.

PVCHR remains committed to standing with vulnerable communities, documenting rights violations, facilitating access to justice, and ensuring that victims and their families receive the protection and remedies guaranteed under the Constitution and the law.

Justice is not measured only by compensation—it is measured by preventing the next avoidable loss of life.

From: <nhrc.india@nic.in>
Date: Thu, Aug 6, 2026 at 4:32 PM
Subject: Concluded and No Further Action Required(CLD) -3231/4/28/2024
To: <pvchr.adv@gmail.com>

NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION

MANAV ADHIKAR BHAWAN BLOCK-C, GPO COMPLEX, INA, NEW DELHI- 110023

Fax No.: 011-24651332    Website: www.nhrc.nic.in

(Law Division)

Case No.- 3231/4/28/2024

---

Date : 06/08/2026

To,

LENIN RAGHUVNASHI SA4/2A DAULATPUR VARANASI VARANASI , UTTAR PRADESH 221002 Email- pvchr.adv@gmail.com , Mob No- 9935599331

Subject: Concluded and No Further Action Required(CLD) -3231/4/28/2024.

Sir/ Madam,

With reference to your complaint/ intimation dated 06/08/2024. I am directed to say that the matter was considered by the Commission on 06/08/2026. The Commission has made the following directions:

The Commission, on 07.08.2024, received a complaint from Lenin Raghuvanshi, alleging that on 05.08.2024, one Smt. Nisha Devi died due to electrocution in village Dhankhada, Sasaram, Bihar, while another woman, Smt. Babita Devi, sustained burn injuries and is undergoing medical treatment. It has been alleged that both women came into contact with a snapped live electric wire while cutting grass, and that the incident occurred due to the negligence of the officials of the Electricity Department in failing to maintain the power line. The complainant has prayed for an impartial inquiry into the incident and the grant of adequate compensation to the next of kin of the deceased, as well as appropriate relief to the injured victim. The Commission took cognizance of the matter on 21.08.2024 and directed the Secretary, Energy Department, Govt of Bihar and the SP, Rohtas, Bihar to submit an action taken report. In pursuance thereof, an action taken report was submitted by the South Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (SBPDCL) which states that the complaint pertains to an incident of electrocution falling within the jurisdiction of the Electricity Supply Division, Dehri. The report reveals that the case relates to an incident in which Smt. Nisha Devi, wife of Shri Nand Baitha, died due to electrocution, while Smt. Babita Devi, wife of Shri Harendra Baitha, sustained burn injuries. The matter was examined by the competent authority in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Bihar State Power (Holding) Company Limited for disposal of electrocution cases. The report further states that, after inquiry, the committee constituted at the level of the Electricity Supply Division, Dehri, recommended payment of compensation in respect of the deceased. Accordingly, the Executive Engineer, Electricity Supply Division, Dehri, vide Office Order No. 366 dated 07.12.2024, sanctioned an ex gratia compensation of Rs.4,00,000/- in favour of Shri Nand Baitha, the husband and dependent of the deceased, Smt. Nisha Devi. It is further reported that Cheque No. 080848 dated 07.12.2024 was issued towards the sanctioned amount. With regard to the claim of the injured, Smt. Babita Devi, the report states that the competent authority found that she had not suffered any permanent physical injury attributable to the incident. Accordingly, her claim for ex-gratia compensation was rejected in terms of the applicable policy. The Commission has carefully considered the report submitted by the South Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited. The report reveals that, pursuant to the inquiry conducted by the competent authority, ex-gratia compensation of Rs.4,00,000/- has been sanctioned and paid to Shri Nand Baitha, the husband and dependent of the deceased, Smt. Nisha Devi, who died due to electrocution. The report further states that the claim of the injured person, Smt. Babita Devi, was rejected by the competent authority as she did not suffer any permanent physical injury entitling her to ex-gratia compensation under the applicable policy. The appropriate action has been taken by the respondent authority. No further intervention of the Commission is called for. Accordingly, the case is closed.

2.      This is for your information.

Your’s faithfully Sd/- Indrajeet Kumar JOINT REGISTRAR (LAW) M-2 Section Ph. No. 011-24663276

 A Humanitarian Appeal for Justice: Standing with Palestinian Child Mohammed Humaid

By People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR)

The People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) has always believed that the dignity and rights of every child must be protected, irrespective of nationality, religion, ethnicity, or political circumstances. Every child deserves safety, healthcare, education, family care, and protection from violence.

Recently, the Embassy of the State of Palestine in New Delhi shared information regarding the case of Mohammed Humaid, a 16-year-old Palestinian minor, whose reported treatment while in detention has raised profound humanitarian concerns.

According to the information communicated by the Embassy, Mohammed was reportedly arrested in February 2026 and detained at Ofer Military Prison. During his detention, he is reported to have contracted scabies, which allegedly developed into a severe bloodstream infection affecting his brain and other vital organs. His condition reportedly became life-threatening, requiring emergency hospitalization at Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem.

The information further states that while receiving medical treatment, Mohammed remained handcuffed to his hospital bed for several days, and his parents were initially denied permission to visit him. Following judicial intervention, he was reportedly released from custody, allowing his family to reunite with him.

These reported circumstances remind us that children living in situations of armed conflict remain among the most vulnerable members of society. International humanitarian law and international human rights standards recognize that children require special protection, particularly when deprived of their liberty or affected by conflict.

A Humanitarian Perspective

PVCHR approaches this matter from a humanitarian standpoint. Our concern is not driven by politics but by the universal principle that every child's life and dignity are equally valuable.

Wherever children are exposed to violence, prolonged detention, denial of family contact, or inadequate medical care, there is a collective responsibility to ensure that their rights are respected and their welfare remains paramount.

Our Appeal

PVCHR respectfully calls upon all concerned authorities, national institutions, international organizations, and humanitarian actors to support:

• Protection of the rights and dignity of children in situations of conflict.
• Access to timely and adequate medical treatment for all detained children.
• Respect for children's right to family contact.
• Independent humanitarian monitoring of detention conditions involving minors.
• Peaceful dialogue and adherence to international humanitarian and human rights obligations.

Human Dignity Has No Borders

For nearly three decades, PVCHR has worked to defend human dignity and support survivors of violence, torture, discrimination, and exploitation. Our commitment extends beyond geographical boundaries because the suffering of one child is a concern for humanity as a whole.

We believe that safeguarding children's rights is essential for building lasting peace and justice. Every child deserves compassion, protection, and hope for the future.

"Every child deserves dignity. Every child deserves protection. Every child deserves a future."

People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR)

Varanasi, India

From Assessment to Action: Transforming the Lives of 110 Musahar Children through Nutrition and Education

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh | May–July 2026

On 28 May 2026, Ms. Aparna Singh conducted an extensive field visit to the villages of Anei, Dallipur, Barhikala, and Hamirapur in Varanasi district to assess the nutritional and educational needs of children from the Musahar community, one of India's most marginalized communities. During her visit, she met with mothers, Anganwadi workers, village volunteers, and community leaders, while observing the living conditions and interacting directly with young children.

The assessment highlighted serious concerns regarding malnutrition, poor preschool attendance, limited access to nutritious food, and the absence of quality early childhood education. Many children under the age of five were found to be vulnerable to undernutrition and lacked opportunities for structured learning that would prepare them for primary school. The visit reinforced the urgent need for a community-based intervention combining nutrition with early education.

Based on the findings of this field assessment, Jan Mitra Nyas, in partnership with the Jiv Daya Foundation (JDF), USA, officially launched the Pre-School Nutrition and Education Initiative on 21 July 2026 across all four villages. The one-year programme aims to improve the health, nutrition, and school readiness of 110 children aged six months to five years through a comprehensive package of nutrition and early learning support. The initiative is supported under a grant to provide daily milk, biscuits, and educational activities for children in the four selected villages.

At the heart of the programme is the daily provision of 150 ml of nutritious milk prepared from Amul Spray milk powder, complemented by biscuits and interactive learning sessions. Developed through Jiv Daya Foundation's research, the nutrition model provides essential protein, carbohydrates, fats, and micronutrients required for healthy growth while simultaneously promoting cognitive and social development through preschool education.

Every morning, children gather at community learning centres where trained village volunteers prepare and distribute fresh milk in a hygienic environment. Following the nutrition session, children participate in age-appropriate learning activities, including alphabets, numbers, colours, shapes, songs, storytelling, and creative play. The programme also encourages good hygiene practices, regular attendance, parental involvement, and continuous monitoring of children's growth and development.

A major milestone of the initiative was achieved with the distribution of school bags and educational kits to all 110 children from Musahar families. The kits included slates, books, stationery, writing practice books, colouring books, chalk, and board books, ensuring that every child has the essential learning materials needed to begin their educational journey. The educational support, valued at ₹75,350, was donated by the Jiv Daya Foundation and formally acknowledged by Jan Mitra Nyas.

The programme has brought together mothers, Anganwadi workers, village volunteers, and community leaders, creating a strong local support system that places children's health and education at the centre of community development. Through daily reporting, regular health assessments, and active parental participation, the initiative ensures transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement.

The field visit by Ms. Aparna Singh on 28 May 2026 served as the turning point that transformed a needs assessment into meaningful action. Today, the Pre-School Nutrition and Education Initiative stands as a powerful example of how collaborative efforts between Jan Mitra Nyas, Jiv Daya Foundation, and local communities can create lasting change for some of the most disadvantaged children in rural Uttar Pradesh. By combining daily nutrition, early childhood education, community participation, and educational support, the programme is giving 110 Musahar children a healthier start, greater confidence, and a stronger foundation for lifelong learning.

NHRC Intervenes to Protect a Missing Minor: Action Taken Report Sought in Simdega Girl's Case

 PVCHR's intervention highlights the urgent need to safeguard every child's right to safety, education, and justice

August 2, 2026

The disappearance of a child is not merely a missing person case—it is a human rights emergency. Every passing day increases the vulnerability of the child to trafficking, exploitation, and abuse. When timely police action is delayed, the risk becomes even greater.

In an important development, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognizance of a complaint filed by PVCHR (People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights) concerning the alleged abduction of a minor schoolgirl from Simdega district, Jharkhand, and has directed the concerned police authorities to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR).

This intervention reinforces the principle that every child has the right to protection, dignity, education, and a life free from fear.

A Child Went Missing. A Family Kept Waiting.

On 29 October 2025, I approached the National Human Rights Commission after receiving information from the family of Jairam Bahadik, a resident of Baghdega village, Kersai Police Station, Simdega district, Jharkhand.

According to the complaint, Jairam's minor daughter, Binita Kumari, a Class 10 student, was allegedly enticed away by a young man from a neighbouring village and taken to Delhi on 2 October 2025.

Despite the family's repeated efforts to search for her and a written complaint submitted at Kersai Police Station on 8 October 2025, they remained without effective relief. Concerned that valuable time was being lost, PVCHR approached the NHRC seeking urgent intervention.

What the Complaint Requested

The complaint requested immediate intervention to ensure that:

• Binita Kumari is traced and rescued safely.
• An FIR is registered against the alleged abductor.
• The victim's family receives protection so they can pursue justice without fear.
• Jharkhand Police coordinates with Delhi Police to expedite the search and secure the child's safe return.
• The girl is able to return home and continue her education.

For every missing child, time is critical. Swift police coordination across state boundaries can make the difference between rescue and prolonged suffering.

NHRC Recognises the Human Rights Dimension

After examining the complaint, the NHRC observed that the allegations prima facie disclose violations of the human rights of the victim.

Exercising its powers under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, the Bench headed by Hon'ble Member Shri Priyank Kanoongo has directed:

• Superintendent of Police, Simdega, Jharkhand
• Commissioner of Police, Delhi

to inquire into the allegations and submit an Action Taken Report within four weeks.

The Commission's intervention reflects the understanding that the disappearance of a minor is not merely a criminal investigation—it is also a matter concerning the child's fundamental rights to safety, liberty, and protection.

Every Missing Child Is a Human Rights Concern

Children who disappear are among the most vulnerable members of society.

Without timely intervention, they may face risks including:

• Human trafficking
• Forced labour
• Sexual exploitation
• Child marriage
• Domestic servitude
• Loss of education
• Long-term psychological trauma

The responsibility of the State extends beyond registering complaints—it includes acting with urgency, coordinating across jurisdictions, and ensuring the child's safe recovery.

The Importance of Interstate Cooperation

This case also highlights the growing need for effective coordination between police forces across different states.

When a child is suspected to have been taken across state boundaries, rapid communication between local police, destination-state police, child protection agencies, and anti-trafficking units becomes essential.

Administrative delays can place children at even greater risk.

The NHRC's direction to both the Simdega Police and the Delhi Police acknowledges this responsibility and underscores the need for coordinated action.

Justice Means Bringing Children Home Safely

For Binita's family, this is not about paperwork.

It is about a daughter.

It is about a student's future.

It is about restoring hope to parents who have waited for months without knowing where their child is.

Every child has the right to live safely, pursue education, and grow free from exploitation.

Every institution entrusted with child protection has a duty to uphold those rights.

PVCHR's Commitment

At PVCHR, we believe that human rights begin with protecting the most vulnerable.

Whether the issue concerns custodial violence, bonded labour, discrimination, trafficking, or missing children, our commitment remains the same—to ensure that every victim has access to justice, dignity, and institutional accountability.

We welcome the NHRC's intervention in this case and hope that the Action Taken Report will lead to the safe recovery of Binita Kumari, accountability for those responsible, and stronger protection mechanisms for children vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation.

No child should disappear into silence. Every missing child deserves an urgent search, every family deserves answers, and every institution must act with compassion, responsibility, and urgency.

From: <nhrc.india@nic.in>
Date: Thu, Jul 30, 2026 at 9:08 PM
Subject: Action Taken Report Called for(ATR) -1382/34/21/2025
To: <sp-simdega@jhpolice.gov.in>, <cpdelhi@delhipolice.gov.in>, <delpol.service@delhipolice.gov.in>, <pvchr.adv@gmail.com>

NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION

MANAV ADHIKAR BHAWAN BLOCK-C, GPO COMPLEX, INA, NEW DELHI- 110023

Fax No.: 011-24651332    Website: www.nhrc.nic.in

(Law Division)

Case No.- 1382/34/21/2025

---

Date : 30/07/2026

To,

THE SUPERINTENDENT OF POLICE SIMDEGA JHARKHAND Email- sp-simdega@jhpolice.gov.in THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE DELHI DELHI Email- cpdelhi@delhipolice.gov.in, delpol.service@delhipolice.gov.in

Sub : Complaint/ Intimation from

LENIN RAGHUVANSHI SA 4/2A DAULATPUR, VARANASI VARANASI , UTTAR PRADESH 221002 Email- pvchr.adv@gmail.com , Mob No- 9935599331

Subject: Action Taken Report Called for(ATR) -1382/34/21/2025.

Sir/ Madam,

The complaint/ intimation dated 29/10/2025, was placed before the Commission on 30/07/2026. Upon perusing the same, the Commission directed as follows:

The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, has entrusted the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, with the responsibility of protecting and promoting the rights of all human beings in the country and having the powers of a civil court for inquiry u/s 13 of the PHR Act, 1993. The complainant Jairam Bahadik of Baghdega village, Simdega District, alleged that his minor daughter, Binita Kumari (Class 10 student, was enticed and taken to Delhi on 02/10/2025 by a young man from the neighboring village of Bithra. The victim's family filed a written application at the Kersai Police Station on 08/10/2025. The complainant is urgently requesting the police to immediately search for and safely recover his daughter, register an FIR against the abductor, and coordinate with Delhi Police to ensure the girl's safety and return. The allegations made in the complaint prima facie seem to be violations of the human rights of the victims. The Bench of the National Human Rights Commission, presided by Shri Priyank Kanoongo, Hon'ble Member, has taken cognizance u/s 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, in the matter. The Registry is directed to issue a notice to the SP Simdega, Jharkhand and the CP, Delhi, with directions to get the allegations made in the complaint inquired into and to submit an Action Taken Report within 4 weeks for perusal of the Commission. A copy of the complaint is attached herewith.

2.      Accordingly, I am forwarding herewith a copy of the complaint/ intimation as an attachment for taking appropriate action in the matter as per the directions of the Commission. It is requested that an Action Taken Report be sent to the Commission within 4 weeks from the date of receipt of this letter.

3.     Any communication by public authorities in this matter may please be sent to the Commission through the HRCNet Portal (https://hrcnet.nic.in) by using id and password already provided to the public authorities (click Authority Login). Any Audio/ Video CDs/ pen drives etc. may be sent through Speed Post/ per bearer. The reports/ responses sent through email may not be entertained.

Your’s faithfully Sd/- Brijvir Singh ASSISTANT REGISTRAR (LAW) M-4 Section Ph. No. 011-24663290

CC to

Complainant Details Case No. 1382/34/21/2025 LENIN RAGHUVANSHI SA 4/2A DAULATPUR, VARANASI VARANASI , UTTAR PRADESH 221002 Email- pvchr.adv@gmail.com , Mob No- 9935599331 Brijvir Singh ASSISTANT REGISTRAR (LAW) M-4 Section Ph. No. 011-24663290

When Workers' Lives Matter: NHRC Intervenes in the Sonbhadra Mining Disaster

 

National Human Rights Commission seeks Action Taken Report from key authorities following my complaint on the Billi Markundi mine collapse

August 2, 2026

Every industrial disaster is more than an accident—it is a test of our commitment to human dignity, workplace safety, and justice. When workers leave home to earn a livelihood, they have the fundamental right to return safely. When that right is violated, accountability must follow.

In a significant development, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognizance of my complaint concerning the tragic mining accident in Billi Markundi, Obra, Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh. Through its proceedings dated 30 July 2026, the Commission has directed the concerned authorities to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) on the incident, recognizing that the allegations raise a prima facie case of human rights violations.

The Tragedy That Demanded Attention

On 22 November 2025, I approached the NHRC after Amar Ujala reported a catastrophic collapse of a stone quarry in the Billi Markundi mining area of Sonbhadra.

The report described a horrifying scene.

During drilling operations, a massive section of the quarry suddenly caved in, trapping workers deep inside the mine.

According to the complaint:

• Around seven labourers were feared trapped beneath the debris.
• Rescue teams recovered one body late at night.
• The quarry was approximately 250–300 feet deep, making rescue operations extremely difficult.
• Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) worked under dangerous conditions to search for survivors.
• The District Magistrate ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident.

Behind these facts were families waiting in anguish, hoping their loved ones would emerge alive.

Seeking Accountability Through NHRC

Recognising that the tragedy raised serious concerns about workplace safety, labour rights, and administrative responsibility, I filed a complaint requesting the NHRC to intervene.

The complaint urged the Commission to ensure:

• A fair and impartial inquiry.
• Accountability for any negligence.
• Compensation and rehabilitation for affected families.
• Protection of the rights of mine workers.
• Measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The complaint was registered by the NHRC following my submission.

NHRC Recognises a Human Rights Issue

After examining the complaint, the NHRC observed that the allegations prima facie indicate violations of the human rights of the victims.

The Commission, through the Bench headed by Hon'ble Member Shri Priyank Kanoongo, has exercised its powers under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 and directed notices to:

• District Magistrate, Sonbhadra
• Superintendent of Police, Sonbhadra
• Labour Commissioner, Government of Uttar Pradesh
• Director General, Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS), Dhanbad

Each authority has been instructed to investigate the allegations and submit an Action Taken Report within four weeks.

This is not merely an administrative exercise—it is an acknowledgment that unsafe working conditions and preventable industrial disasters are human rights concerns deserving independent scrutiny.

Beyond an Accident: The Larger Questions

Mining continues to be one of India's most hazardous occupations.

Whenever workers lose their lives underground or inside quarries, difficult questions must be asked.

• Were mandatory safety standards followed?
• Were geological risks properly assessed?
• Did the employer comply with labour and mine safety regulations?
• Were workers provided adequate protective equipment and training?
• Were emergency preparedness and rescue mechanisms sufficient?
• Could this tragedy have been prevented?

Unless these questions are answered honestly, accidents will continue to repeat themselves.

The Human Cost of Negligence

Statistics often reduce disasters to numbers.

• One worker dead.
• Seven feared trapped.
• But every number represents a family whose future changes forever.
• Children lose parents.
• Parents lose sons.
• Communities lose breadwinners.
• The psychological trauma extends far beyond the physical accident.

Human rights begin with recognising the dignity of every worker—not only after tragedy strikes, but before it happens.

Why NHRC's Intervention Matters

The NHRC's decision reinforces an important principle:

The right to safe working conditions is a human right.

Industrial development cannot be separated from labour rights.

Economic growth loses its meaning when workers are forced to risk their lives because of negligence, weak enforcement, or inadequate regulation.

By seeking reports simultaneously from the district administration, police, labour department, and the Directorate General of Mines Safety, the Commission has emphasised that accountability must be shared across institutions responsible for protecting workers.

Justice Must Lead to Reform

The outcome of this inquiry should not be limited to determining responsibility for a single accident.

It should become an opportunity to strengthen:

• Mine safety inspections.
• Enforcement of labour protections.
• Compliance with DGMS regulations.
• Emergency response systems.
• Compensation and rehabilitation mechanisms.
• Transparency in industrial accident investigations.

True justice is achieved not only when responsibility is fixed, but when future tragedies are prevented.

Continuing the Pursuit of Justice

I welcome the NHRC's intervention and appreciate its recognition of the human rights dimensions of this tragedy.

As the complainant, I will continue to monitor the proceedings and follow the case closely until the affected workers and their families receive justice, accountability is established, and necessary reforms are implemented.

Industrial progress must never come at the cost of human life.

Every worker deserves safety.

Every family deserves justice.

Every institution must uphold its responsibility to protect human dignity.

Because every worker's life matters.

From: <nhrc.india@nic.in>
Date: Thu, Jul 30, 2026 at 9:12 PM
Subject: Action Taken Report Called for(ATR) -25460/24/69/2025
To: <labourcom@nic.in>, <dmson@nic.in>, <spsbr-up@nic.in>, <dg@dgms.gov.in>, <utah@dgms.gov.in>, <pvchr.adv@gmail.com>

NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION

MANAV ADHIKAR BHAWAN BLOCK-C, GPO COMPLEX, INA, NEW DELHI- 110023

Fax No.: 011-24651332    Website: www.nhrc.nic.in

(Law Division)

Case No.- 25460/24/69/2025

---

Date : 30/07/2026

To,

THE LABOUR COMMISSIONER Office of Labour Commissioner, Department of Labour, Government of Uttar Pradesh LUCKNOW UTTAR PRADESH Email- labourcom@nic.in THE DISTRICT MAGISTRATE DM Camp Office, Lodhi, Sonbhadra, U.P SONEBHADRA UTTAR PRADESH 231216 Email- dmson@nic.in THE SUPERINTENDENT OF POLICE SONEBHADRA UTTAR PRADESH Email- spsbr-up@nic.in THE DIRECTOR GENERAL DHANBAD JHARKHAND Email- dg@dgms.gov.in,utah@dgms.gov.in

Sub : Complaint/ Intimation from

LENIN RAGHUVANSHI SA 4/2A DAULATPUR, VARANASI VARANASI , UTTAR PRADESH 221002 Email- pvchr.adv@gmail.com , Mob No- 9935599331

Subject: Action Taken Report Called for(ATR) -25460/24/69/2025.

Sir/ Madam,

The complaint/ intimation dated 22/11/2025, was placed before the Commission on 30/07/2026. Upon perusing the same, the Commission directed as follows:

The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, has entrusted the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, with the responsibility of protecting and promoting the rights of all human beings in the country and having the powers of a civil court for inquiry u/s 13 of the PHR Act, 1993. The complainant draws attention to a news report published in Amar Ujala dated 16/11/2025 regarding a major mining accident in the Billi Markundi mining area, Obra (Sonbhadra). He states that a stone quarry suddenly collapsed, and bout 7 workers are feared trapped, and by late night, one unidentified body was recovered from the debris. Due to darkness and the quarry being 250–300 feet deep, rescue teams of NDRF and SDRF faced severe difficulties. The authorities have taken cognisance of the case. The allegations made in the complaint prima facie seem to be violations of the human rights of the victim. The Bench of the National Human Rights Commission, presided by Shri Priyank Kanoongo, Hon'ble Member, has taken cognizance u/s 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, in the matter. The Registry is directed to issue a notice to the DM, and SP, Sonebhadra, the Labour Commissioner, Govt. of UP, Kanpur, and the DG, Mines Safety, Dhanbad, with directions to get the allegations made in the complaint inquired into and to submit an Action Taken Report within 4 weeks for perusal of the Commission. A copy of the complaint is attached herewith.

2.      Accordingly, I am forwarding herewith a copy of the complaint/ intimation as an attachment for taking appropriate action in the matter as per the directions of the Commission. It is requested that an Action Taken Report be sent to the Commission within 4 weeks from the date of receipt of this letter.

3.     Any communication by public authorities in this matter may please be sent to the Commission through the HRCNet Portal (https://hrcnet.nic.in) by using id and password already provided to the public authorities (click Authority Login). Any Audio/ Video CDs/ pen drives etc. may be sent through Speed Post/ per bearer. The reports/ responses sent through email may not be entertained.

Your’s faithfully Sd/- Brijvir Singh ASSISTANT REGISTRAR (LAW) M-4 Section Ph. No. 011-24663290

CC to

Complainant Details Case No. 25460/24/69/2025 LENIN RAGHUVANSHI SA 4/2A DAULATPUR, VARANASI VARANASI , UTTAR PRADESH 221002 Email- pvchr.adv@gmail.com , Mob No- 9935599331 Brijvir Singh ASSISTANT REGISTRAR (LAW) M-4 Section Ph. No. 011-24663290