NHRC investigates Amravati hospital fire killing three newborns

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) issued a notice to the Maharashtra Chief Secretary to investigate a reported fire incident at a hospital in Amravati that allegedly killed three newborns and injured four others, citing potential human rights violations.

Who it concerns: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the Government of Maharashtra (specifically the Chief Secretary), the District Women's Hospital at Amravati, and the families of the affected newborns.

What the Commission said or ordered

• NHRC took suo motu cognizance of media reports regarding a fire incident on 24th August 2026 at the Sick Newborn Care Unit of the District Women's Hospital, Amravati.
• The incident reportedly involved a blast in a ventilator machine, resulting in the death of three newborns and injuries to four others.
• NHRC issued a notice to the Maharashtra Chief Secretary demanding a detailed report within two weeks.
• The requested report must include the current health status of the injured babies and the status of compensation disbursement announced by the government.

Also in the document

• Media reports indicate that nine babies were present in the unit during the incident.
• One of the four injured babies is reported to be in critical condition.
• NHRC stated that if the news reports are true, the incident raises serious issues of human rights violations.