Probe negligence, fix responsibility of officials: Panel to Power Dept

A case of official negligence has prompted stern action from the Haryana Human Rights Commission following the death of an 81 per cent disabled youth, Rajneesh, who got electrocuted after coming in contact with an unfenced roadside transformer at Nathupur turn on GT Road, Sonepat.

Justice Lalit Batra, Chairperson of the commission, condemned the incident as a “gross violation of human rights” and directed the Electricity Department to probe and hold officials concerned accountable. The transformer, installed in a high-footfall pedestrian area, lacked any form of protective fencing or visible warning signs.

The victim’s uncle, Ranbir, lodged a complaint detailing the fatal incident that occurred on January 11. Rajneesh was reportedly walking near the roadside transformer when he accidentally came in contact with the live equipment. He was rushed to FIMS Hospital, Sonepat, but was declared “brought dead” on arrival.

Justice Batra, expressing displeasure over the dereliction of duty, noted that the incident was entirely preventable. “The tragedy underscores the state’s failure to ensure basic public safety. The transformer’s condition reveals a systemic breakdown in infrastructure maintenance and inspection,” he said.

The Commission held that the incident constituted a direct breach of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the Right to Life, and violated provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. The case highlighted how vulnerable individuals continue to face disproportionate risks due to institutional apathy. It noted that public authorities—falling under the definition of ‘State’ under Article 12—had failed to protect both constitutional and statutory rights, particularly those safeguarding the lives and dignity of persons with disabilities.

In a series of recommendations, the commission directed the Electricity Department to carry out a time-bound, independent investigation into the incident. The officials responsible for the installation and maintenance of the transformer were to be identified, and appropriate disciplinary or legal action was to be initiated. It further instructed the state government to provide immediate interim compensation to the family of the deceased, based on the principles of State liability and reparative justice.

To prevent such tragedies in future, the commission called for a district-wise audit of all transformers and high-voltage electrical installations situated in public or residential areas. The audit is to include mandatory fencing or barricading around transformers, the installation of visible warning signs and hazard indicators, verification of overhead clearance, removal of low-hanging wires, proper maintenance records and the development of emergency response systems to deal with similar incidents.

Dr Puneet Arora, Protocol and Information Officer of the commission, added that the Commissioner of Police, Sonepat, has been directed to submit a status report on whether an FIR has been registered and to provide updates on the progress of any criminal investigation into the matter. Likewise, the Deputy Commissioner, Sonepat, has been asked to report on the disbursement of compensation to Rajneesh’s family.

The case is scheduled to be heard next before the full commission on July 30.