NHRC acts on Gorakhpur Minor’s death after falling in uncovered drain

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report about the death of an 11-year-old boy in Gorakhpur. Based on the news dated 20th February, the Commission issued notices to the concerned authorities regarding the alleged violation of human rights, negligence, and compensation to the victim’s kins.  

The incident occurred on 19th February, 2026 when the minor reportedly fell in an uncovered drain in Gorakhpur district of Uttar Pradesh. He was returning home after purchasing stationery items, and his bicycle slipped into the drain hidden behind dense bushes at an under-construction site. As per the news, the residents had made several complaints to the local authorities so concerned, informing them about the uncovered under-construction drain. However, no action was taken so far, resulting in the incident of the death of a minor.  

NHRC issued notices to the District Magistrate and the Senior Superintendent of Police seeking a detailed report on the matter within 2 weeks. The Commission expressly sought the status of compensation extended to the victim’s family in the said report.

Source: PIB