In a tragic incident at the New Delhi Railway Station, a woman lost her life due to electrocution on June 25. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has now taken suo motu cognizance of the incident and issued notices to the Chairman of the Railway Board, the Delhi government, and the city police chief. The Commission is seeking a detailed report within four weeks and is looking for information on the present status of the FIR, action taken against the responsible officers/officials, compensation provided to the victim’s family, and the steps being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The victim, identified as Sakshi Ahuja, a resident of Preet Vihar in Delhi, had arrived at the New Delhi railway station around 5:30 am with her relatives for a trip to Bhopal. Unfortunately, heavy rainfall had caused waterlogging on the premises. As Sakshi tried to maneuver her way around the waterlogged area, she grabbed an electric pole for support, resulting in her electrocution. Tragically, her sister also received a shock while attempting to rescue her. Despite the police station being only a few meters away, there was allegedly no timely response to the incident, according to the victim’s family.
The NHRC expressed concern over the incident, stating that if the details reported in the media are accurate, they amount to a grave violation of the victim’s and her family’s human rights. The Commission believes that the incident highlights the apparent negligence of authorities in contributing to waterlogging and exposed electrical wires. They emphasized that not only the civic and electricity authorities but also the Railways failed to take necessary precautions at the station, considering it is one of the busiest public places in the National Capital Territory.
Lokesh Kumar Chopra, Sakshi Ahuja’s father, holds the concerned authorities accountable for the tragic incident. He expressed his grief and blamed negligence for his daughter’s death, emphasizing the need for accountability.
Following the incident, heavy monsoon rains have affected several parts of Delhi and the National Capital Region, causing waterlogging and inconvenience to the public. This incident serves as a reminder of the urgent need for authorities to address such lapses and ensure the safety of citizens.
The NHRC’s intervention in this case brings attention to the need for accountability and improved safety measures at public spaces like the New Delhi Railway Station. By issuing notices to the relevant authorities, the Commission aims to shed light on the negligent practices that led to this unfortunate loss of life. The comprehensive report requested by the NHRC will help establish the sequence of events, identify the responsible parties, and provide compensation to the victim’s family.
It is crucial for all stakeholders involved, including the Railway Board, the Delhi government, and the city police chief, to respond promptly and transparently to the NHRC’s notices. This incident warrants a thorough investigation, necessary action against those found negligent, and the implementation of measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The tragic death of Sakshi Ahuja raises questions about the safety measures in place at the New Delhi Railway Station, especially during the monsoon season. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining essential infrastructure and addressing potential hazards to protect citizens’ lives.
In conclusion, the NHRC’s intervention in response to the woman’s electrocution death at the New Delhi Railway Station highlights the pressing need for action and accountability. Authorities must prioritize the safety of individuals, address negligent practices, and implement measures to prevent similar incidents. A thorough investigation and timely response are imperative to provide justice to the victim’s family and prevent such tragedies in the future.
