The National Human Rights Commission on Saturday taken suo motu cognisance of a tragic incident in Ajmer, Rajasthan, where a 50-year-old labourer died after being buried alive while digging a sewer pit.
The accident occurred on July 14 inside the premises of a local powerhouse.
Labourer Trapped As Soil Collapses
According to media reports, the victim was working alongside others to excavate a 30-foot-deep pit when the soil caved in around 18 feet below the surface. While the other workers managed to escape, the man was trapped under the debris.
Rescue teams, including the police and civil defence, rushed to the spot and carried out a prolonged operation lasting nearly six to seven hours. Unfortunately, by the time they reached the victim, he had succumbed to the collapse. His body was recovered and sent for post-mortem examination.
NHRC Calls Out Workplace Negligence
Calling the incident a serious violation of human rights, the NHRC raised concerns over the lack of safety measures and accountability in hazardous work environments. It particularly flagged the failure to ensure basic protections for labourers engaged in life-threatening tasks.
“This is a grave case of negligence and a blatant disregard for workplace safety, resulting in the loss of a life,” the Commission stated.
Notices Issued To Rajasthan Authorities
In response, the NHRC has issued notices to the Chief Secretary of Rajasthan and the Commissioner of Police, Ajmer, demanding a detailed report within 2 weeks.
Full details of the incident
Identification of any procedural or safety lapses
Compensation (if any) provided to the victim’s family
Measures taken to improve safety and prevent such tragedies in the future
The NHRC emphasized that the case highlights ongoing risks faced by workers in unsafe conditions and underscores the urgent need for enforceable safety protocols at construction and excavation sites.
“Such incidents serve as a stark reminder that labourers continue to face avoidable dangers due to negligence and poor regulation,” the Commission noted.
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