NHRC Issues Heat Wave Directive to Jharkhand and 21 States; Calls for Protection of Vulnerable Groups

New Delhi (IANS): The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has directed the Chief Secretary of Jharkhand, along with 20 other state governments and Delhi, to implement proactive measures against the rising threat of deadly heat waves. The directive emphasizes the urgent need for inclusive relief efforts to protect marginalized populations and prevent casualties during the ongoing summer season.

Alongside Jharkhand, the directive covers states including Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. As an autonomous body, the NHRC continues to monitor these measures to ensure the protection of the fundamental right to life and dignity for all citizens.

Focus on Marginalized and High-Risk Groups

The NHRC observed that extreme heat disproportionately impacts economically weaker sections, specifically:

• Outdoor Workers & Homeless Persons: Individuals lacking adequate shelter or the resources to escape prolonged exposure.
• High-Risk Demographics: The elderly, children, infants, and newborns who face severe health consequences from rising temperatures.

The commission cited NCRB data showing 3,712 deaths due to heatstroke or sunstroke in India between 2019 and 2023. Beyond health risks, the NHRC noted that heat waves threaten livelihoods and increase the frequency of fire-related incidents.

Mandated Relief and Reporting

The NHRC urged the state governments to follow the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines and establish Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The commission has requested consolidated action-taken reports from district authorities via their respective state administrations.