Urgent Action Required: NHRC Exposes Shocking Food Poisoning Crisis in Telangana Schools, Demands Justice for 48 Student Deaths and 886 Disturbing Incidents!
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged the Telangana State government to conduct a thorough investigation into alarming reports of over 800 children suffering from suspected food poisoning in residential schools. This directive emerged during a two-day NHRC camp in Hyderabad, which addressed more than 100 human rights cases in the state.
Following the hearings on Tuesday, NHRC chairperson Justice V. Ramasubramanian emphasized the Commission’s serious concern over the food poisoning incidents, particularly after revelations from a private meeting with senior state officials held on Monday. Justice Ramasubramanian reported that there have been around 886 documented cases of food poisoning in gurukul schools, contributing to the unfortunate deaths of approximately 48 students. The officials informed the Commission that measures have already been initiated, including the suspension and blacklisting of certain contractors linked to these incidents. The NHRC has mandated that status reports be submitted within four weeks to facilitate ongoing oversight.
The NHRC’s open sitting at the Dr. MCR Human Resource Development Institute saw two benches reviewing 109 cases over two days. The Commission successfully closed 29 cases based on merit after hearing testimonies from both parties involved. In another significant case, the NHRC expressed concern over the prolonged detention of a minor in an adult jail, describing the situation as “deeply troubling.” Consequently, the Commission decided to award ₹2 lakh in compensation to the juvenile’s family.
Data released by the NHRC highlights that Telangana currently has 780 unresolved human rights complaints pending within the Commission, part of a national tally of 34,685. Among these complaints are four reported deaths in police custody and 30 in judicial custody.
The NHRC also reported an upward trend in suo motu cases, indicating a responsive approach to incidents brought to light via media or social media platforms. “In 2021, we initiated just 17 such cases, but by 2023, that number soared to 117. This year, we have already seen over 50 cases. Our vigilant monitoring of news outlets and social media ensures that even a minor report can instigate an inquiry,” Justice Ramasubramanian stated.
Additionally, the NHRC engaged with grassroots organizations and human rights defenders during the camp, who shared firsthand accounts of discrimination and neglect plaguing various communities. This engagement underlines the Commission’s commitment to addressing human rights violations and advocating for the dignity of all citizens.
The need for systemic reforms and rigorous accountability measures was underscored throughout the proceedings. The NHRC’s proactive stance on these pressing issues reflects an ongoing commitment to safeguard human rights and ensure that justice is served across Telangana.
This critical situation in Telangana serves as a reminder that robust oversight and rapid response mechanisms are essential to protect vulnerable populations, particularly within educational institutions.
Hyderabad | Published – July 30, 2025 02:45 am IST
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/nhrc-flags-food-poisoning-in-telangana-residential-schools-seeks-report-on-886-incidents-and-48-student-deaths/article69870036.ece
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Publish Date: 2025-07-30 02:45:00
