The Haryana Human Rights Commission has intervened following a media report on an unfortunate event at the Surajkund fair in Faridabad. During rescue operations, Police Inspector Jagdish Prasad lost his life, and multiple visitors sustained injuries. The commission, led by Chairperson Justice Lalit Batra and members Kuldip Jain and Deep Bhatia, has highlighted a potential violation of fundamental rights in the incident.
The commission has urged for a posthumous honor for the brave police officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. It stressed the importance of upholding safety standards at public events like fairs and emphasized the need for strict compliance with regulations to prevent any negligence. Organizers and authorities overseeing such events are reminded of their constitutional and legal obligations to ensure public safety.
In its observations, the commission emphasized that a fair should encompass not just cultural and economic aspects but also prioritize safety, transparency, accountability, accessibility, and human dignity. It noted that any compromise on safety standards or risking visitors’ lives undermines the true essence of such events. The commission underscored the significance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for all attendees, including vulnerable groups like senior citizens, children, and individuals with disabilities.
To enhance safety measures at events like the Surajkund International Crafts Mela, the commission has directed the state government to implement a zero-tolerance policy towards public safety lapses. It mandated that all fairs and festivals must obtain certification from a technical committee comprising experts in various fields before commencement. Additionally, third-party safety audits of all event structures have been made mandatory to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Assistant Registrar Puneet Arora disclosed that the Deputy Commissioner of Faridabad has been tasked with submitting a detailed report within four weeks. This report should include the inquiry committee’s findings, the status of the FIR, and actions taken against those responsible. Furthermore, the Director General of Police has been requested to provide a report on the circumstances surrounding Inspector Jagdish Prasad’s demise, details of compensation for his dependents, and measures implemented to safeguard police personnel at large public gatherings.
