NHRC Demands Probe Into Deadly Andhra Pradesh Industrial Explosion

The NHRC has called for a comprehensive investigation into an explosion at a private industrial unit in Andhra Pradesh's Anakapalli district, which resulted in 17 deaths and several injuries. Authorities have been directed to check for safety compliance and negligence, with a detailed report due within two weeks.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of a devastating explosion that killed at least 17 workers and injured several others at a private industrial unit in Andhra Pradesh's Anakapalli district. The commission has directed the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation.

The explosion occurred on Wednesday during lunchtime, which, fortunately, limited the number of workers present in the plant and prevented even greater casualties. However, the death toll is expected to rise as search operations continue.

Expressing deep concern over the apparent safety violations, the NHRC has issued notices to both the Andhra Pradesh chief secretary and the director general of police. The notices mandate an investigation to determine whether the industrial unit adhered to safety regulations and whether there was any negligence by supervising authorities.

The commission has set a two-week deadline for a detailed report on the status of the FIR, treatment for the injured, and compensation for the victims' families. The NHRC has also requested information on relief efforts and actions taken against any responsible officials.

In the wake of the explosion, the State Disaster Response Force teams continue their search for survivors amid fears that more bodies may still be trapped under the rubble. The exact cause of the explosion remains unclear.

(With inputs from agencies.)