Petition to NHRC
Petition by PVCHR and its associates and further action and result
Friday, May 22, 2026
किताब ‘काशी’ पर बड़ी बातचीत | डॉ. लेनिन रघुवंशी के साथ कुमार विजय
Wednesday, April 8, 2026
Justice Delayed, Accountability Denied: A Case from Varanasi That Demands Urgent Attention
In January 2024, a man lost his life due to electrocution while hoisting a flag at a temple. Despite medical treatment, he succumbed to severe electric burns on 3 February 2024. Behind this loss is a young widow and her three children—now struggling not only with grief but also with economic and social insecurity.
A complaint was filed with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on 3 June 2025, seeking justice and compensation of ₹5 lakh. The Commission took cognizance and directed the Uttar Pradesh Energy Department to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR). However, even after months—and a formal reminder issued on 8 April 2026—the authorities have failed to respond.
This silence is not just administrative delay—it raises serious concerns:
This case is not isolated. It reflects a broader issue where preventable deaths—especially among marginalized and lower-income families—often go unaddressed.
Key Concerns from the Case:
- Death caused by alleged electrical negligence in a public space
- Delayed institutional response despite NHRC intervention
- Economic vulnerability of the victim’s family
- Absence of timely compensation and accountability
Justice is not only about compensation—it is about dignity, accountability, and ensuring that such tragedies do not repeat.
If institutions fail to act even after formal directives, it weakens public trust and undermines the very idea of human rights protection.
This is not just one family’s fight—it is a question of systemic responsibility.
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
When Justice Requires a 300 km Journey: A Case That Demands Accountability
What followed was equally alarming.
Due to the absence of a Government Railway Police (GRP) station at Singrauli, the survivor had to travel nearly 300 kilometers to Katni just to file an FIR. This is not just a logistical failure—it is a denial of immediate access to justice.
A news report published in Amar Ujala brought the issue into public attention, highlighting both the crime and the systemic negligence that compounded the survivor’s trauma.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, a formal complaint was submitted to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India. The complaint called for:
An impartial investigation
Compensation for the survivor
Accountability for institutional lapses
Urgent reforms to ensure women’s safety at railway stations
On 18 March 2026, the NHRC took cognizance of the matter and directed the Superintendent of Police, Singrauli, to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) within four weeks.
This step is important. It transforms a local injustice into a matter of national human rights concern. It ensures that authorities must respond—not just to the crime, but to the failure of systems meant to protect citizens.
Yet, questions remain.
This case is not an isolated incident—it reflects a broader issue of access to justice, institutional accountability, and gendered vulnerability in public spaces.
As civil society, institutions, and citizens, we must ensure:
Immediate police access at all major transit points
Survivor-centered response systems
Accountability for administrative negligence
Stronger monitoring of public safety infrastructure
The NHRC’s intervention is a beginning—but justice will depend on what follows.
#HumanRights #Justice #WomensSafety #NHRC #Accountability #India
Date: Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 1:17 PM
Subject: Action Taken Report Called for(ATR) -3742/12/56/2025-WC
To: <spsingrouli@gmail.com>, <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.- 3742/12/56/2025-WC |
| Date : 18/03/2026 |
| To, |
| THE SUPERINTENDENT OF POLICE SINGRAULI MADHYA PRADESH Email- spsingrouli@gmail.com |
| Sub : Complaint/ Intimation from |
LENIN RAGHUVANSHI |
| Subject: Action Taken Report Called for(ATR) -3742/12/56/2025-WC. |
| Sir/ Madam, |
| The complaint/ intimation dated 13/09/2025, was placed before the Commission on 18/03/2026. Upon perusing the same, the Commission directed as follows: |
| The complainant alleges that a 25-year-old female passenger was raped in the toilet of Singrauli railway station by an employee.The victim had to travel nearly 300 km to Katni to lodge an FIR due to absence of GRP facilities.The accused has been arrested, but the lack of immediate police support caused severe distress to the victim.The complainant request impartial investigation, justice, compensation for the victim, and urgent steps to ensure women’s safety at railway stations. Let a copy of complaint be transmitted to the Supdt. of Police, Singrauli, MP calling for an Action Taken Report within four weeks. Put up after four 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 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 |
| CC to |
Complainant Details Indrajeet Kumar |
Sunday, March 1, 2026
NHRC Seeks Action Taken Report on Lightning Deaths of Three Persons in Sonbhadra and Bhadohi, Uttar Pradesh
Incident Details
According to the complaint submitted on 26 July 2025, three individuals lost their lives in separate lightning strike incidents during intense monsoon rainfall. The victims included:
-
Ashish, a 13-year-old boy from Village Dadihara, Police Station Myorpur, District Sonbhadra
-
A 50-year-old farmer from Sonbhadra district
-
A 65-year-old woman from Bhadohi district
The incidents occurred during heavy rains accompanied by thunderstorms. Local police and health authorities confirmed the deaths after the victims were struck by lightning.
These tragic incidents highlight the vulnerability of rural populations, particularly children, farmers, and elderly persons, who are often exposed to extreme weather conditions without adequate protective infrastructure or early warning systems.
Human Rights Concerns
The loss of life due to lightning strikes raises serious concerns regarding:
-
Protection of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution of India
-
State responsibility to provide disaster preparedness and risk mitigation measures
-
Adequate compensation and rehabilitation for affected families
-
Implementation of disaster management and emergency response mechanisms
Natural disasters and lightning-related deaths require prompt and adequate response from authorities, including financial relief, social support, and preventive measures.
NHRC Intervention
After reviewing the complaint, the NHRC directed the District Magistrates of Sonbhadra and Bhadohi to:
-
Examine the matter and take necessary action
-
Provide compensation and relief as per applicable government schemes
-
Submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) to the Commission within four weeks through the official HRCNet portal
This intervention reflects NHRC’s commitment to protecting the right to life and ensuring that victims’ families receive appropriate relief and support.
PVCHR’s Position
The People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) welcomes the NHRC’s intervention and urges the district authorities to ensure:
-
Immediate financial compensation to the families of the deceased
-
Proper implementation of disaster relief schemes
-
Preventive measures and awareness programs to reduce lightning-related fatalities
-
Strengthening of early warning and disaster preparedness systems in vulnerable rural areas
Timely compensation and preventive action are essential to protect vulnerable communities and uphold human dignity.
Commitment to Justice and Support
Lenin Raghuvanshi and PVCHR remain committed to supporting the affected families and advocating for justice, accountability, and effective disaster response measures.
Every preventable death due to natural hazards underscores the urgent need for stronger institutional preparedness and protection of citizens’ fundamental rights.
Date: Wed, Feb 25, 2026, 16:31
Subject: Action Taken Report Called for(ATR) -16096/24/69/2025
To: <dmson@nic.in>, <dmsrn@nic.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.- 16096/24/69/2025 |
| Date : 25/02/2026 |
| To, |
| THE DISTRICT MAGISTRATE Bhandar Khurd, Uttar Pradesh 231216 SONEBHADRA UTTAR PRADESH 231216 Email- dmson@nic.in THE DISTRICT MAGISTRATE BHADOHI UTTAR PRADESH Email- dmsrn@nic.in |
| Sub : Complaint/ Intimation from |
LENIN RAGHUVANSHI |
| Subject: Action Taken Report Called for(ATR) -16096/24/69/2025. |
| Sir/ Madam, |
| The complaint/ intimation dated 26/07/2025, was placed before the Commission on 25/02/2026. Upon perusing the same, the Commission directed as follows: |
| The complainant reports that three individuals tragically died after being struck by lightning during heavy rainfall in Sonebhadra and Bhadohi Districts. The victims include a 13-year-old boy, a 50-year-old farmer, and a 65-year-old woman. The incidents occurred in separate villages and were reported by local police and health officials. The complainant requests the Commission to take cognizance of the matter and provide compensation to the affected families. Let the copy of the complaint be transmitted to the District Magistrate, Sonebhadra and District Magistrate, Bhadohi to take needful action and submit an action taken report duly translated in English within four weeks to this Commission. |
| 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 |
| CC to |
Complainant Details Sparsh Agarwal |
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
NHRC Issues Final Reminder in Electrocution Death Case of Varanasi Farmer
📌 Case Background
The complaint was originally filed on 06 August 2024 by social activist Lenin Raghuvanshi, regarding the death of Santosh Kumar (45 years), a resident of Pachraw village, Chaubepur, Varanasi.
Victim Name: Santosh Kumar
Age/Gender: 45/M
Incident Date: 03/08/2024
Category: Death Due to Electrocution (1514)
Location: Chaubepur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Santosh Kumar reportedly went to switch on a government-operated tube well for irrigation when he was electrocuted. Despite intimation, no official from the tube well department allegedly reached the site. Police from Chandpur Police Station later arrived and sent the body for post-mortem.
The complaint alleged negligence by officials of the State Irrigation (Tube Well) Department and requested:
A fair and impartial investigation
Compensation for the bereaved family
📨 NHRC’s Latest Action (23 February 2026)
In its proceedings dated 23/02/2026, the NHRC noted:
The Commission had earlier sought an Action Taken Report (ATR) from the District Magistrate, Varanasi on 21/10/2024.
Despite repeated reminders, no report has been received from the concerned authorities.
The Commission has now issued a final reminder, directing submission of a complete report within two weeks (by 19/03/2026).
Failure to comply may result in coercive measures under Section 13(1) of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
This indicates serious concern from the Commission regarding administrative inaction.
⚠️ Key Human Rights Concerns
- Right to Life (Article 21 of the Constitution of India)Death allegedly caused by negligence in maintaining public infrastructure raises constitutional concerns.
- Administrative AccountabilityDelayed response and absence of departmental presence at the incident site point toward systemic failure.
- Right to Remedy and CompensationThe victim’s family, including his wife and children, await justice and financial support.
🏛️ Why This Matters
This case reflects broader concerns about:
Safety standards in government-operated irrigation infrastructure
Delayed administrative accountability
Rural farmers’ vulnerability
Need for timely human rights intervention
The NHRC’s firm stance shows that state authorities are answerable when negligence results in loss of life.
🔍 What Happens Next?
Authorities must:
Conduct a proper inquiry
Fix responsibility
Submit a detailed Action Taken Report
Consider compensation for the victim’s family
If they fail to comply, the NHRC may initiate coercive proceedings.
The tragic death of Santosh Kumar underscores the urgent need for infrastructure safety audits, administrative accountability, and timely justice mechanisms. As the deadline of 19 March 2026 approaches, all eyes will be on whether the concerned authorities respond responsibly to the Commission’s directive.
Justice delayed must not become justice denied.
Tuesday, February 17, 2026
NHRC Intervention in Chandauli Lightning Death Case: A Step Toward Justice for Rural Victims
NHRC Intervention in Chandauli Lightning Death Case: A Step Toward Justice for Rural Victims
Human Rights Action in the Case of Tara Devi’s Death
In a significant development for human rights protection and accountability, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognizance of a complaint regarding the tragic death of a rural woman, Tara Devi, in Chandauli district of Uttar Pradesh. The Commission has directed the District Magistrate, Chandauli, to investigate the matter and submit an Action Taken Report within four weeks.
This intervention highlights the importance of institutional mechanisms in ensuring justice and compensation for vulnerable communities affected by accidental deaths and administrative negligence.
The Incident
According to the complaint filed by social activist Lenin Raghuvanshi, the incident occurred on 14 July 2025 in Maharathpur village of Chandauli district, Uttar Pradesh.
Tara Devi, aged 58, was planting paddy in agricultural fields when she was struck by lightning. She was immediately taken to the Primary Health Center but was declared dead on arrival.
The complaint raised concerns regarding:
-
Proper investigation of the incident
-
Government accountability
-
Compensation and support for the victim’s family
-
Protection of the rights of rural agricultural workers
The case was supported by media reporting, which brought public attention to the tragedy.
NHRC’s Action
After reviewing the complaint dated 19 July 2025, the National Human Rights Commission directed:
-
The District Magistrate, Chandauli to examine the matter
-
Authorities to conduct necessary inquiry
-
Submission of an Action Taken Report (ATR) within four weeks
-
Appropriate action including relief or compensation where applicable
This direction reflects NHRC’s role in protecting the right to life and ensuring state responsibility toward citizens.
Why This Case Matters
1. Protection of Rural Lives
Farmers and agricultural workers face significant risks from natural disasters such as lightning strikes. Many victims’ families struggle to access compensation or institutional support.
2. State Accountability
Government authorities must ensure disaster response mechanisms, timely medical assistance, and financial relief for affected families.
3. Human Rights Framework
The right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution of India requires authorities to protect citizens and respond adequately to such incidents.
4. Access to Justice
NHRC intervention provides a platform for marginalized communities to seek justice and accountability.
Need for Stronger Disaster Response Mechanisms
This case highlights broader issues that require policy attention:
-
Awareness programs on lightning safety in rural areas
-
Early warning systems
-
Immediate compensation mechanisms
-
Strengthening primary healthcare response in villages
-
Protection of agricultural workers’ rights
Ensuring these measures can help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Role of Civil Society
The case demonstrates the importance of civil society organizations and human rights defenders in:
-
Raising awareness
-
Documenting violations
-
Supporting victims’ families
-
Ensuring accountability of public authorities
Active citizen engagement strengthens democratic governance and human rights protection.
The NHRC’s intervention in the Tara Devi case represents a positive step toward justice and accountability. It underscores the importance of institutional oversight in safeguarding human rights and ensuring that vulnerable communities are not denied their basic rights and entitlements.
Ensuring timely investigation, compensation, and policy reforms will be essential in delivering justice to the victim’s family and preventing similar incidents in the future.
Date: Tue, Feb 17, 2026, 13:23
Subject: Action Taken Report Called for(ATR) -15760/24/19/2025
To: <dmchn@nic.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.- 15760/24/19/2025 |
| Date : 17/02/2026 |
| To, |
| THE DISTRICT MAGISTRATE DISTRICT COLLECTORATE, CHANDAULI UTTAR PRADESH 232104 Email- dmchn@nic.in |
| Sub : Complaint/ Intimation from |
LENIN RAGHUVANSHI |
| Subject: Action Taken Report Called for(ATR) -15760/24/19/2025. |
| Sir/ Madam, |
| The complaint/ intimation dated 19/07/2025, was placed before the Commission on 17/02/2026. Upon perusing the same, the Commission directed as follows: |
| The complainant alleges that one Tara Devi was struck by lightning while planting paddy in Maharathpur village, Chandauli district, Uttar Pradesh. She was taken to the Primary Health Center but was declared dead on arrival. the complainant requests the Commission to investigate and provide compensation to the victim's family. Let a copy of the complaint be sent to the District Magistrate, Chandauli, U.P. for needful action and for submitting an action taken report to this Commission within four 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 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 |
| CC to |
Complainant Details Sparsh Agarwal |
Friday, February 6, 2026
When Healthcare Fails the Most Vulnerable: Seeking Accountability for the Death of Four Newborns in Uttar Pradesh
According to the complaint submitted to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the incident occurred on 8 June 2025 in the hospital’s Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU). The newborns, reportedly premature and in critical condition, required ventilator support — a life-saving intervention that was allegedly unavailable at the facility. Without timely access to essential equipment, their chances of survival were drastically reduced.
The loss of a newborn is not just a statistic; it is the collapse of a family’s hopes and dreams. Each death represents a profound human tragedy that demands more than administrative acknowledgment — it demands truth, responsibility, and reform.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the National Human Rights Commission has taken cognizance of the complaint and directed the Secretary of Health & Family Welfare, Uttar Pradesh, to submit an Action Taken Report within four weeks. This intervention is a welcome step, reaffirming that access to healthcare is inseparable from the fundamental right to life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.
However, the questions raised by this incident go far beyond a single hospital. How can a district-level facility entrusted with neonatal care function without adequate ventilator support? Were there sufficient contingency plans for emergency referrals? Were families properly informed and assisted? And if illegal charges for essential equipment were indeed demanded, what mechanisms allowed such practices to persist?
These are not merely operational failures — they point toward deeper structural challenges within public healthcare systems, particularly in underserved districts. Infrastructure shortages, staff constraints, delayed procurement, and weak oversight often converge to create situations where preventable deaths become normalized. This normalization is perhaps the greatest injustice of all.
India has made notable progress in reducing infant mortality over the past decades, yet such incidents remind us that progress is uneven. Rural and semi-urban healthcare institutions frequently operate under immense pressure, serving large populations with limited resources. But resource constraints cannot become an excuse for compromised care when human lives are at stake.
Accountability must therefore be both immediate and systemic. A transparent and independent inquiry is essential to establish the facts — not to assign blame prematurely, but to ensure that lessons are learned and corrective measures implemented. Where negligence is found, responsibility must be fixed. Where gaps exist, they must be urgently addressed.
At the same time, this tragedy presents an opportunity to rethink our approach to maternal and neonatal healthcare. Strengthening Special Newborn Care Units, ensuring the availability of critical equipment, improving referral transport systems, and investing in skilled personnel are not optional reforms — they are moral imperatives. Technology, too, can play a role through real-time monitoring of equipment availability and early warning systems for shortages.
Equally important is the need to center healthcare around dignity and compassion. Families navigating medical emergencies should never feel abandoned or coerced. Trust is the foundation of public health, and once broken, it is difficult to rebuild.
The NHRC’s intervention signals that institutional mechanisms for justice remain active and responsive. Yet true justice will only be achieved when such tragedies are prevented from recurring. Every newborn deserves not only the chance to survive but the assurance that the system designed to protect them will function when it matters most.
As a society, we must resist the temptation to move on quickly from such incidents. Instead, we must ask difficult questions, demand transparency, and support reforms that prioritize human life above procedural convenience. The right to health is not aspirational — it is fundamental.
The deaths of these four newborns must not fade into anonymity. Let them serve as a turning point — a call to strengthen healthcare systems, enforce accountability, and reaffirm our collective commitment to protecting the most fragile lives among us.
Because ultimately, a nation that safeguards its children safeguards its future.
Date: Fri, Jan 30, 2026 at 1:19 PM
Subject: Action Taken Report Called for(ATR) -13452/24/7/2025
To: <psecup.health@gmail.com>, <psecup.health@nic.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.- 13452/24/7/2025 |
| Date : 30/01/2026 |
| To, |
| THE SECRETARY - Health & Family Welfare 4th floor, Room No.401, Lal Bahadur Shastri Bhawan UP Secretariat, Lucknow - 226 001, UP UTTAR PRADESH UTTAR PRADESH Email- psecup.health@gmail.com,psecup |
| Sub : Complaint/ Intimation from |
LENIN RAGHUVANSHI |
| Subject: Action Taken Report Called for(ATR) -13452/24/7/2025. |
| Sir/ Madam, |
| The complaint/ intimation dated 10/06/2025, was placed before the Commission on 30/01/2026. Upon perusing the same, the Commission directed as follows: |
| The Commission received a complaint on 10/06/2025 about medical negligence in Badaun, Uttar Pradesh. Upon pursuing the same the Commission directed as follows: |
| 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 |
| CC to |
Complainant Details Atul Kumar |













