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

https://epaper.prabhatkhabar.com/crop/6a682e04674536250eb76c28

 NHRC Orders ₹7.5 Lakh Compensation for Family of Custodial Death Victim Ashok Majhi: A Step Toward Accountability

Justice may be delayed, but every step toward accountability matters.

After more than three years of sustained advocacy, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has reaffirmed its recommendation that the Government of Bihar pay ₹7,50,000 in compensation to the family of Ashok Majhi, who died following alleged police torture while in custody. The Commission has directed the Chief Secretary of Bihar to ensure that the compensation is paid within six weeks and submit proof of compliance by 14 September 2026.

This order is not merely about financial relief—it is a recognition of the human cost of custodial violence and the responsibility of the State to uphold the right to life and dignity.

The Case

Ashok Majhi, a 39-year-old resident of Bihar, was taken into police custody in November 2022 after being accused in a liquor-related case. His family alleged that he was brutally tortured while in custody. He sustained severe head injuries and later died during treatment in a hospital. The police initially claimed that his death resulted from a road accident, while his family maintained that it was the consequence of custodial torture.

Deeply concerned by media reports and the family's allegations, Lenin Raghuvanshi, founder of the People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), filed a complaint before the National Human Rights Commission on 10 January 2023, seeking an independent investigation, justice, and compensation for the victim's family.

NHRC Investigation Confirms the Family's Vulnerability

During its investigation, an NHRC team conducted an on-site inquiry with local authorities. The inquiry revealed the devastating circumstances facing Ashok Majhi's family.

Ashok's wife had also passed away, leaving four children orphaned. The children now live with their grandmother, who suffers from poor eyesight. The eldest son works as a daily wage labourer to support the family, while the remaining children continue to live in extreme poverty.

Based on these findings, the Bihar Government acknowledged that the family was eligible for humanitarian compensation.

Commission Confirms ₹7.5 Lakh Compensation

After considering the State Government's response, the NHRC concluded that its earlier recommendation was fully justified.

The Commission has directed the Chief Secretary, Government of Bihar, to:

• Pay ₹7,50,000 to the next of kin of Ashok Majhi within six weeks.
• Submit proof of payment before the NHRC.
• Ensure compliance by 14 September 2026.

The Commission also expressed concern that no report had been received from the Director General of Police, Bihar, regarding disciplinary proceedings against the police officer allegedly responsible. The DGP has now been directed to submit the status of departmental action within the same time frame.

Why This Order Matters

Custodial deaths represent one of the gravest violations of human rights because they occur while individuals are under the protection and control of the State.

This order sends an important message:

• The State cannot ignore its responsibility toward victims' families.
• Humanitarian compensation is an essential form of recognition when fundamental rights are violated.
• Accountability requires not only financial relief but also disciplinary action against officials responsible for abuse.

While compensation cannot restore a lost life, it can provide much-needed support to a family left in extreme hardship and reinforce the principle that abuses of power must not go unanswered.

The Role of Human Rights Defenders

This outcome highlights the importance of persistent human rights advocacy. Without the complaint submitted by PVCHR and continued follow-up before the NHRC, the family's struggle for justice might never have received national attention.

For over three decades, PVCHR has worked alongside survivors of torture, custodial violence, and marginalized communities, documenting abuses, providing legal support, and pursuing accountability through national and international human rights mechanisms.

Justice Is Not Yet Complete

The NHRC's order represents significant progress, but the journey is not over.

The Bihar Government must now implement the Commission's directions without delay, and disciplinary proceedings against the officials involved must be pursued transparently.

True justice requires more than compensation. It requires accountability, institutional reform, and a commitment to ensuring that no family has to endure the trauma of losing a loved one in custody again.

Every custodial death is a reminder that human dignity must remain at the heart of governance. Every step toward accountability strengthens the rule of law and brings us closer to a society where justice is not the exception but the norm.

Link of incident: https://www.livehindustan.com/bihar/story-custodial-death-of-person-caught-in-liquor-case-torture-allegations-on-bihar-police-7337112.html

From: <nhrc.india@nic.in>
Date: Fri, Jul 24, 2026 at 12:12 PM
Subject: Relief granted [Compensation, Disciplinary & Prosecution](CMP) - 68/4/22/2023-ad
To: <cs-bihar@nic.in>
Cc: <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.- 68/4/22/2023-ad

---

Date : 24/07/2026

To,

THE CHIEF SECRETARY GOVERNMENT OF BIHAR, MAIN SECRETARIAT, 4, DESHARTAN MARG, RAJBANSI NAGAR, PATNA, BIHAR BIHAR BIHAR Email- cs-bihar@nic.in

Sub : Complaint/ Intimation from

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

Subject: Relief granted [Compensation, Disciplinary & Prosecution](CMP) -68/4/22/2023-ad.

Sir/ Madam,

I am directed to say that the matter was considered by the Commission on 16/07/2026 and the Commission has directed as follows:

In compliance with the Order dated 18.03.2026, the Under Secretary, Home Department (Special Branch), Government of Bihar submitted a reply dated 01.04.2026 to the show cause notice, which reads as follows: “A team of the National Human Rights Commission, New Delhi, conducted an on-site inquiry in association with the local police and the Zonal Police Inspector, Jamalpur. During the inquiry, it was found that the deceased had four children. Since his wife had also passed away, all four children have been left orphaned and are residing with their grandmother, who suffers from poor eyesight. The eldest son of the deceased is working as a labourer, while the remaining children are living in extreme poverty. The family is in dire need of financial assistance and has been found eligible for compensation. Accordingly, on the basis of the findings of the on-site inquiry conducted by the National Human Rights Commission, it has been recommended that compensation be provided to the dependents of the deceased, Ashok Majhi, on humanitarian grounds.” It is pertinent to note that this Commission had already called upon the Chief Secretary, Government of Bihar, to show cause as to why compensation of Rs.7,50,000/- (Rupees Seven Lakhs Fifty Thousand only) should not be recommended to the next of kin of the deceased. Upon consideration of the reply, it is evident that the State Government has accepted, in principle, the recommendation for payment of compensation to the dependents of the deceased on humanitarian grounds. In view thereof, the recommendation of this Commission for payment of compensation of Rs.7,50,000/- (Rupees Seven Lakhs Fifty Thousand only) to the next of kin of the deceased is found to be fully justified and is hereby confirmed. The Chief Secretary, Government of Bihar, is directed to ensure disbursement of the said amount within a period of six weeks from the date of receipt of this Order and to submit proof of payment before this Commission. So far as the action proposed against the erring police officer is concerned, no response has yet been received from the Director General of Police, Bihar. The Director General of Police is, therefore, directed to furnish the status of the departmental action initiated against the erring police officer within the same period. Put up after six weeks.

It is therefore, requested that the compliance report in the matter be sent to the Commission latest by 14/09/2026, so that the same could be placed before the Commission.

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/- Indrajeet Kumar JOINT REGISTRAR (LAW) DB-3 Section Ph. No. 011-24663276

CC to

Complainant Details Case No. 68/4/22/2023-ad LENIN RAGHUVANSHI SA4/2A DAULATPUR VARANASI VARANASI , UTTAR PRADESH 221002 Email- pvchr.adv@gmail.com , Mob No- 9935599331 Indrajeet Kumar JOINT REGISTRAR (LAW) DB-3 Section Ph. No. 011-24663276

When Recognition Becomes Responsibility: CRY's Appreciation of Kashi

 Some moments remind us that writing can do more than tell stories—it can open conversations, build bridges, and reaffirm our shared commitment to justice.

I am deeply grateful to Soha Moitra, Regional Director – North, Child Rights and You (CRY), for her thoughtful letter appreciating our book, Kashi, co-authored with Chandra Mishra and Shruti Nagvanshi. Her reflections are not merely an acknowledgment of a publication; they recognize the voices of the people whose lives and struggles inspired the book.

In her letter, Soha writes that Kashi goes beyond portraying the city as a place of temples and rituals. Instead, it presents Kashi as a living civilization rooted in dignity, pluralism, compassion, and human solidarity, bringing forward the lived experiences of Dalits, Musahars, women, weavers, migrants, and other marginalized communities whose stories are too often left untold. She particularly appreciated the chapter "Narrative of Exclusion," highlighting its documentation of resilience and its connection with community initiatives supported through the Jan Mitra Nyas (JMN)–CRY partnership.

This recognition carries special meaning because it comes from an organization that has spent decades working to protect children's rights and strengthen community-led development across India.

The appreciation from CRY reinforces a central message of Kashi: the future of India cannot be understood only through monuments, infrastructure, or economic growth. It must also be understood through the dignity, aspirations, and participation of those who have historically remained at the margins.

As I wrote in my recent essay, "Kashi, Democracy, and the Future of India: Why the Voices at the Margins Matter," the true strength of democracy lies in making invisible lives visible and ensuring that development expands dignity for everyone. The conversations emerging around Kashi—from universities and policymakers to civil society organizations like CRY—demonstrate a growing recognition that inclusion, constitutional values, and social justice must remain at the heart of India's democratic journey.

I sincerely thank Soha Moitra and the entire CRY family for this encouraging appreciation. Such recognition strengthens our resolve to continue documenting stories of resilience, promoting constitutional values, and working toward an India where every voice matters.

Read the full essay:
https://medium.com/@lenin_75290/kashi-democracy-and-the-future-of-india-why-the-voices-at-the-margins-matter-585537d3463b

NHRC's Intervention Reinforces Accountability and Human Rights Protection

 In a democratic society, the protection of human rights depends not only on laws but also on the active functioning of independent institutions that ensure accountability. The recent decision of India's National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to seek an Action Taken Report (ATR) from the Superintendent of Police, Koderma, in a complaint concerning the alleged mistreatment of advocate Raunak Kumar Yadav is a positive example of this institutional responsibility.

The NHRC has registered the matter as Case No. 282/34/12/2026 and directed the Superintendent of Police, Koderma, to conduct an inquiry and submit an Action Taken Report within two weeks. In its order dated 14 July 2026, the Commission observed that the allegations contained in the complaint constitute serious allegations of human rights violations, warranting an official inquiry.

The complaint relates to an incident allegedly occurring on 10 January 2026, when advocate Raunak Kumar Yadav visited Koderma Police Station in connection with his professional duties. According to the complaint, he was allegedly subjected to verbal abuse, physical intimidation, and obstruction while attempting to meet his client. The complaint further states that these actions caused mental trauma and interfered with his professional responsibilities as a lawyer.

Rather than reaching any conclusion on the merits of the allegations, the NHRC has followed due process by seeking a factual report from the concerned police authorities. This reflects the Commission's role as an independent statutory institution committed to ensuring that complaints of alleged human rights violations receive impartial examination.

The People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), which supported the submission of the complaint, believes that whenever allegations involve lawyers, journalists, human rights defenders, or ordinary citizens facing possible violations while exercising their lawful rights, an independent inquiry is essential to uphold public confidence in democratic institutions and the rule of law.

The Commission's intervention is therefore significant not only for the complainant but also for the broader principle of institutional accountability. Seeking an Action Taken Report is an important procedural step that enables the facts to be independently examined and helps ensure that public authorities remain accountable for their actions.

As the inquiry proceeds, it is expected that the Superintendent of Police, Koderma, will submit a comprehensive report to the NHRC within the stipulated timeframe. The Commission will then consider the findings and determine the appropriate course of action in accordance with law.

The NHRC's prompt response demonstrates the importance of independent oversight mechanisms in safeguarding constitutional rights and strengthening the rule of law. Such institutional vigilance contributes to greater transparency, accountability, and public trust in the protection of human rights in India.

Link: राष्ट्रीय मानवाधिकार आयोग ने कोडरमा पुलिस से मांगी रिपोर्ट, अधिवक्ता से कथित दुर्व्यवहार मामले में 2 सप्ताह में ATR तलब

From: <nhrc.india@nic.in>
Date: Tue, Jul 14, 2026 at 4:38 PM
Subject: Action Taken Report Called for(ATR) -282/34/12/2026
To: <sp-koderma@jhpolice.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.- 282/34/12/2026

---

Date : 14/07/2026

To,

THE SUPERINTENDENT OF POLICE KODERMA JHARKHAND Email- sp-koderma@jhpolice.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) -282/34/12/2026.

Sir/ Madam,

The complaint/ intimation dated 13/01/2026, was placed before the Commission on 14/07/2026. Upon perusing the same, the Commission directed as follows:

An online complaint dated 13.01.2026 has been received from Raunak Kumar Yadav S/o Vijay Kumar Yadav, R/o House No. 218, Ward No. 07, Giridih Road, Koderma, Jharkhand, in the Commission on 13.01.2026, containing that: The complainant alleged that while visiting Koderma Police Station on 10.01.2026 to meet his client in the course of his professional duties, he was initially denied permission and, after being allowed entry, was surrounded by police personnel who allegedly pushed him, abused him, threatened to kill him, and obstructed him from performing his duties as a lawyer. He claimed that the incident caused him mental trauma and violated his constitutional and human rights. In view of the above, the Commission is of the considered view that the allegations leveled in the complaint are serious violations of the Human Rights of the victims. Accordingly, the Registry is directed to send a copy of the complaint to the Superintendent of Police, Koderma, Jharkhand, to make an inquiry and submit the report expeditiously within a period of 2 Weeks.

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 2 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/- Sparsh Agarwal DEPUTY REGISTRAR (LAW) M-3 Section Ph. No. 011-24663291

CC to

Complainant Details Case No. 282/34/12/2026 LENIN RAGHUVANSHI SA 4/2A DAULATPUR, VARANASI VARANASI , UTTAR PRADESH 221002 Email- pvchr.adv@gmail.com , Mob No- 9935599331 Sparsh Agarwal DEPUTY REGISTRAR (LAW) M-3 Section Ph. No. 011-24663291

Turning Evidence into Relief: The Compensation Process

 From Pain to Partial Justice: How People's Testimonies and Human Rights Advocacy Forced Recognition of the Bairvan Struggle

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

"Human rights work is not merely about filing complaints. It is about transforming silent suffering into public truth, and public truth into accountability."

A Village That Refused to be Silent

For years, the people of Bairvan village in Varanasi have lived under the shadow of displacement. Their ancestral lands, cultivated over generations, became the subject of acquisition for the Mohansarai Transport Nagar project. What should have been a lawful and transparent rehabilitation process instead became a story of uncertainty, unequal compensation, police violence and fear.

The crisis reached its darkest moment on 16 May 2023, when hundreds of police personnel accompanied officials during attempts to take possession of land. Villagers allege that peaceful resistance was met with brutal lathi-charge, arbitrary arrests, destruction of crops and intimidation. Elderly farmers, women and daily wage workers became victims of violence while defending the only asset they possessed—their land.

This was not merely a dispute over compensation. It became a human rights crisis involving the rights to livelihood, dignity, bodily integrity and access to justice.

PVCHR documented these violations and transformed individual suffering into collective evidence for justice.

The First Step: Taking the Matter to NHRC

On 22 May 2023, information received from affected farmers was converted into a formal complaint by Lenin Raghuvanshi before the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

The complaint was registered as:

• Diary No.: 8381/IN/2023
• Victims: Poor Farmers of Bairvan
• Category: Abuse of Power

On 30 May 2023, NHRC directed the Commissioner of Police, Varanasi, to examine the complaint, associate the complainants in the process and report action within eight weeks. Although the Commission disposed of the complaint after issuing directions, the intervention officially acknowledged that the allegations required administrative scrutiny.

Human Rights Work Did Not End With Filing the Complaint

For PVCHR, filing a petition is only the beginning.

Recognising that institutional orders alone rarely change realities on the ground, the organisation initiated a community-based rights process.

1. Folk School: Rebuilding Collective Voice

The team organised an open village meeting where people narrated experiences they had never previously spoken publicly about.

Farmers described:

• fear of police reprisals,
• uncertainty regarding land acquisition,
• unequal compensation,
• destruction of standing crops,
• psychological trauma,
• loss of livelihood.

The Folk School became more than a meeting—it became a democratic space where victims realised they were not isolated individuals but part of a collective struggle.

2. Making the State Listen

Many villagers had never directly interacted with public grievance systems.

PVCHR encouraged each affected family to use government toll-free complaint mechanisms. Rather than speaking on behalf of the victims, the organisation enabled people to register complaints themselves.

This simple process restored confidence that ordinary citizens could engage directly with state institutions.

3. Documenting Human Suffering Through Testimonies

Perhaps the most important intervention was the systematic documentation of 21 detailed testimonies.

These testimonies transformed allegations into evidence.

They documented:

• police assaults,
• arbitrary detention,
• broken bones,
• destruction of crops,
• denial of compensation,
• economic collapse,
• psychological trauma,
• fear of future eviction.

The testimonies became both legal documentation and historical memory.

Pain Beyond Statistics

The struggle cannot be understood through numbers alone.

Krishna Pratap (74)

A former village head, Krishna Pratap described being beaten repeatedly while trying to stop a JCB from destroying tomato crops. He suffered serious eye injuries and facial fractures.

His words capture the humiliation experienced by many villagers:

"They beat me in front of everyone as if I had committed a terrible crime. They were taking our land without compensation."

Asha Devi

While hiding inside her home, she watched police brutally assault her husband, breaking his arm.

Unable to afford treatment, the family sold her gold earrings to finance surgery.

More than ₹1.5 lakh was spent on medical treatment, pushing the family into debt.

The trauma continues years later.

Bablu

Bablu was beaten, arrested and imprisoned merely for opposing the acquisition of his land.

He recalled repeatedly asking police:

"What is my fault?"

No answer ever came.

Restoring Dignity

Several days later, PVCHR returned—not with legal notices, but with respect.

Affected families were honoured with traditional gamchas.

Their own testimonies were read aloud before the community.

This symbolic act carried deep psychological significance.

Victims who had felt abandoned discovered that their experiences mattered.

Recognition became part of healing.

Compensation: A Significant but Incomplete Relief

One month after follow-up, important progress became visible.

According to documentation collected during the follow-up:

• 22 affected families received compensation
• Total compensation distributed: ₹1,00,90,863 (One Crore Ninety Thousand Eight Hundred Sixty-Three Rupees)

The compensation varied considerably because it reflected differences in land holdings.

Examples include:

Beneficiary	Compensation
Shobhnath	₹2,02,240
Munshi	₹2,02,240
Harinath	₹2,02,240
Ramji	₹3,30,484
Sidhnath	₹8,22,611
Ashok	₹16,59,218
Lallan	₹4,46,350
KunKun	₹4,46,350

The official list records compensation for all 22 beneficiaries, amounting to ₹1,00,90,863.

Why Compensation Alone Is Not Justice

Receiving compensation represented an important achievement.

Yet compensation cannot erase:

• physical injuries,
• psychological trauma,
• criminalisation of peaceful protest,
• years of uncertainty,
• loss of trust in institutions,
• fear of future displacement.

Many families continue to argue that compensation remains unequal and that several affected persons are still awaiting fair settlement and secure rehabilitation.

Lessons from the Bairvan Process

The Bairvan experience demonstrates that effective human rights advocacy is a process, not a single legal intervention.

The process included:

• documenting violations,
• filing complaints before NHRC,
• organising community dialogue,
• encouraging direct citizen participation,
• recording testimonies,
• sustained field follow-up,
• restoring victims' dignity,
• monitoring compensation.

Each step strengthened the next.

The result was not merely monetary relief but greater visibility, institutional accountability and increased community confidence.

The Bairvan struggle reminds us that justice is rarely immediate.

It emerges through persistence, documentation, community organisation and institutional engagement.

The compensation received by 22 families is an important milestone, but it is only one chapter.

The larger struggle—for equal compensation, accountability for police violence, rehabilitation with dignity and protection of constitutional rights—continues.

As PVCHR has consistently demonstrated, the journey from pain to justice begins when victims become rights-holders, testimonies become evidence, and communities become agents of change.

From Silence to Strength: The Healing Journey of Telling Their Stories

https://petition-nhrc.blogspot.com/2026/07/ssssss.html

https://petition-nhrc.blogspot.com/2026/06/blog-post.html

https://petition-nhrc.blogspot.com/2026/07/blog-post.html

Compensation Brings Relief to 22 Bairvan Families, But the Journey to Justice Continues

https://testimonialhealing.blogspot.com/2026/07/compensation-brings-relief-to-22.html