NHRC issues notices, seeks detailed report
The Commission has issued formal notices to the Chief Secretary, Government of Gujarat, and the Commissioner of Police, Ahmedabad, calling for a detailed report within two weeks. The NHRC noted that, if the media account is accurate, the collapse raises serious human-rights concerns tied to workplace safety and regulatory oversight.
What happened: the reported sequence
According to the media story carried on 29 September 2025, about 15 labourers were installing an advertising hoarding nearly 80 feet above ground on the rooftop of a seven-storey residential building when the structure came down. Ten workers reportedly fell; of these, two sustained fatal injuries, one was grievously injured, and seven suffered minor injuries. The injured were taken to hospital for treatment.
Issues under NHRC scrutiny
The NHRC’s suo motu action indicates scrutiny on several fronts: adherence to safety standards, presence (or absence) of permits for high-rise hoarding installations, employer responsibility for worker protection, and whether local municipal or police oversight failed to prevent a foreseeable hazard.
Legal and administrative steps likely
By issuing notices to the state Chief Secretary and the city police chief, the NHRC seeks factual details: official incident reports, names of the victims if available, medical status of the injured, registration and compliance records for the advertising agency or contractor, and steps taken by authorities in the aftermath.
Context: worker safety in informal sectors
Roof-top and exterior advertising work is often conducted by informal contractors and labourers who lack formal safety training and equipment. This accident underscores the vulnerability of such workers and the need for strict enforcement of building, labour and electrical safety norms—especially in dense urban areas such as Ahmedabad.
Official sources and next steps
NHRC’s notices require a report within two weeks, after which the Commission may decide on further action—including recommending compensation, ordering a state inquiry, or initiating corrective directives to prevent recurrence.
Human impact and accountability
Beyond administrative remedies, the incident foregrounds human costs: families of victims face loss of livelihood and trauma, while injured workers often contend with long recovery and medical bills. The NHRC’s involvement aims to ensure that the state responds not only with an investigation but also measures to uphold the victims’ rights to relief and rehabilitation.
