NHRC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Girl's Death After Falling Into Open Manhole in Palwal

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, has taken suo motu cognizance of the alleged death of a four-year-old girl in Palwal, Haryana. According to a media report, on September 14, 2026, the child fell into an open manhole while playing near her home, resulting in her death. The report further mentioned that the manhole remained open despite multiple complaints filed by local residents with the concerned authorities.

According to the media report published on September 16, 2026, the child's family and local residents found her inside the open manhole and rushed her to the District Civil Hospital in critical condition, where doctors declared her dead.

The NHRC stated that if the contents of the media report are true, it constitutes a serious case of human rights violation. In this regard, the Commission has issued notices to the Deputy Commissioner and the Superintendent of Police of Palwal, directing them to submit a detailed report within two weeks. The Commission has sought information in the report regarding the current status of the investigation and the compensation provided to the family of the deceased, if any.