New Delhi, 4th July, 2013

The National Human Rights Commission has taken suo-motu cognizance of a media report that Rajiv Sharda, aged 25 years, died of electrocution on 15th June, 2013, when he accidentally touched an electric pole in Mahavir Enclave, Dabri, New Delhi. The Commission has observed that the contents of the press report, if true, raise a serious violation of human rights of the victim.

Notices have been issued to the Chief Secretary, Government of NCT of Delhi and the concerned power company to submit a report in the matter within four weeks.

Reportedly, Rajiv along with one Dhruba Sarkar were walking to the market around 01:30 p.m. The entire street was filled with water because of lack of proper drainage and maintenance. After walking a few meters, both of them felt electric current in the water. As they tried to get out of it, Rajiv lost balance and reached for the pole, which was charged. People came out and pulled Rajiv from the pole. He was rushed to the Bhagat Chandra Hospital where he was declared brought dead. The residents alleged that there were many loosely hanging wires but there was no action despite complaints to BSES.

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