Tragic Incident in Bargarh: NHRC Steps In After Boy's Death in Rice Mill Accident

NHRC Takes Notice of Boy's Death in Bargarh

Bargarh: The unfortunate demise of a young boy who fell into a hot ash pile at a rice mill in Mahule village has caught the attention of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

Pratyush Bhaena, a minor from Baipura village, tragically slipped into the hot ash while heading to a nearby stream for a bath on the morning of February 26.

The severe burns he sustained from the smoldering ash ultimately led to his death.

Social activist Dillip Kumar Dash from Nandol, Bhawanipatna, alerted the NHRC about this incident.

In response to his complaint, the commission has opened an investigation into the matter.

As part of their inquiry, the NHRC has sent notices to the Chief Secretary of the state, the Director General of Police, and the Bargarh Collector, requesting comprehensive reports on the actions taken regarding this incident within a week.

A hearing has also been scheduled in Bhubaneswar on July 21, with instructions for the relevant authorities or their representatives to attend in person.

After receiving treatment at VIMSAR, Burla, for 40 days, the boy, still in critical condition, was transferred to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack on April 8.

He was admitted there on April 9 but sadly succumbed to his injuries the following evening at 7:30 pm. Following the post-mortem, local residents protested by placing his body in front of the rice mill, demanding justice.

In light of the public outcry, police apprehended the rice mill owner, and the district administration has formed an independent team to further investigate the incident.