Haryana Rights Commission Orders Fresh Probe into Hotel Sewer Deaths
The Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has delivered a scathing critique of the police investigation into the tragic deaths of two men during a hotel sewer cleaning operation in Hansi last October. In a strongly worded observation, the commission labeled the investigation as biased, suspicious, and designed to shield the real culprits from accountability.
Commission Uncovers "Deliberate" Attempt to Divert Liability
Examining the investigation records, the commission found evidence of what it described as a deliberate and well-planned attempt to divert liability and protect those responsible for the fatal incident. The commission highlighted several irregularities that raised serious questions about the integrity of the probe.
One key issue flagged by the commission was the so-called appointment letter of the hotel's assistant manager. The document bore no date, leading the commission to conclude it was likely prepared hastily after the incident to shift responsibility away from the hotel owner. The commission condemned this as a blatant abuse of both law and morality.
Questionable Legal Opinion Leads to Dilution of Charges
The commission also raised serious concerns about a legal opinion dated November 13, 2025, provided by the deputy district attorney. This opinion resulted in the dilution of charges from BNS Section 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) to BNS Section 106 (death by negligence) without any recorded justification.
"This unexplained downgrading of charges casts serious doubt on the investigation's intent and conduct," stated the commission, emphasizing that such actions undermine public trust in the justice system.
Commission Decries "Institutional Attempt to Evade Accountability"
In its observations, the commission made it clear that this was not merely a case of investigative negligence. "This appears to be an institutional attempt to evade accountability," the commission stated, adding that half-hearted explanations and cosmetic investigations cannot be tolerated in matters of such grave consequence.
The commission further expressed displeasure over the failure of both the local civic body and the hotel management to submit their reports as directed, warning that continued non-compliance would be viewed seriously.
Fresh Investigation Ordered, Officials Summoned
Taking note of the seriousness of the case, the commission has directed the Superintendent of Police (SP) of Hansi to:
- Re-examine the case afresh with complete impartiality
- Submit a detailed report at least one week before the next hearing
- Appear in person at the next hearing
Additionally, the commission has summoned:
- The Deputy Superintendent of Police who initially investigated the case
- The Deputy District Attorney who rendered the controversial legal opinion
Compensation Alone Does Not Equal Justice
The full commission, comprising Chairperson Justice Lalit Batra and members Kuldip Jain and Deep Bhatia, clarified an important point regarding the compensation already provided. While Rs 30 lakhs each was paid to the families of the deceased, the commission emphasized that monetary relief alone does not amount to justice.
"True justice requires proper investigation, accountability for those responsible, and systemic reforms to prevent such tragedies from recurring," the commission noted, underscoring that financial compensation, while important, cannot substitute for a thorough and impartial investigation.
The case has brought to light serious concerns about workplace safety protocols, particularly for sanitation workers, and the mechanisms for investigating such incidents. The commission's intervention represents a significant step toward ensuring that the deaths of these two men receive the serious attention and proper investigation they deserve.
