NHRC notice to Chief Secretary over sewer cleaner's death in Palwal

New Delhi, April 13

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notice to the Chief Secretary among others, over the alleged death of a person while cleaning a sewage tank in Palwal.

The other two who have been served notice are the Palwal Municipal Council Chairman and Superintendent of Police (Palwal), calling for a report in six weeks.

The commission noted that their reports are expected to include updates on the present health status of the three injured workers and the relief/ rehabilitation provided to the aggrieved families.

One person reportedly died and three others were admitted to a hospital in a serious condition while cleaning a sewage tank in Palwal district.

The incident happened on April 9. The work was being carried out by the local Municipal Council through a private company which had further given a subcontract to another company. “Reportedly, the workers were not provided safety gear by the contractor,” the commission noted.

Issuing the notice, the commission observed that a large number of people have died within a short span while undertaking sewage/ septic tank-cleaning work. —