NHRC Issues Notice to Maharashtra Chief Secretary Over Fatal Amravati Hospital Fire

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, has taken suo motu cognizance of a fatal fire incident at the Sick Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of the District Women's Hospital in Amravati, Maharashtra, which resulted in the deaths of three newborn babies and left four others injured.

The incident took place on 24th August 2026. According to media reports, the fire broke out following a blast in a ventilator machine located inside the specialised care facility. A total of nine infants were present inside the Sick Newborn Care Unit when the blast and subsequent fire occurred.

While three newborns died in the incident, four other infants sustained injuries. Among those who survived the fire, the medical condition of one of the four injured babies has been reported to be critical.

Taking serious note of the media report published on 25th August 2026, the Commission observed that the contents of the report, if true, raise grave concerns regarding the violation of human rights.

Following these observations, the NHRC issued a formal notice to the Chief Secretary of Maharashtra, calling for a comprehensive and detailed report on the matter within two weeks.

The rights body has directed that the detailed submission must provide clear information regarding the current health status and medical treatment of the injured infants. Additionally, the commission expects the report to include specific details regarding the status of the disbursement of relief and compensation announced by the state government for the affected families.