New Delhi, 3rd July, 2013

The National Human Rights Commission has taken suo-motu cognizance of a media report that an under trial prisoner, Bittoo, aged 40 years, died of suffocation while cleaning a sewer in Tihar Jail No. 1, Delhi. The under trial prisoner was lodged in the Jail since 28th September, 2012 in connection with a theft case.

Reportedly, he along with four others, entered into the sewer without helmets and other safety equipments. While the four persons were rescued, Bittoo died of suffocation on the spot on 15th May, 2013. The incident came to light almost after three weeks when the media highlighted it.

Issuing notice to Director General (Prison), Delhi, the Commission has called for a report in the matter within four weeks. The DG is also directed to inform the Commission whether the inmates of the Jail, in general, asked to undertake risky jobs, such as, cleaning of sewer, etc. and, if not, the name of the official, who deputed the inmates to clean the sewer line.

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