NHRC takes cognisance of plaint claiming denial of basic amenities in CMC ward

Cuttack: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Wednesday took cognisance of a complaint alleging denial of basic civic amenities to nearly 50,000 residents of Ward No.

56 under the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC), despite the area being part of the civic body since 1997.Following its preliminary examination, the NHRC has directed its registry to forward the complaint to the chief secretary, the DGP, the principal secretary of the transport department, the collector and the district magistrate of Cuttack, and the municipal commissioner of CMC. Authorities concerned have been asked to submit detailed action taken reports within four weeks.

The complaint, received on Feb 24 from Akshaya Kumar Pandey and several local residents, alleged that people in the ward continue to face severe infrastructural deficiencies, including the absence of drainage facilities, pucca roads, street lights and public bus connectivity.The petitioners also highlighted safety concerns regarding the deteriorating bridge over the Kuakhai river near the ward. According to the complaint, heavy vehicles are allegedly allowed to ply across the ageing structure even during restricted hours, posing risks to commuters and residents.

They accused authorities of negligence in maintaining the bridge and regulating vehicular movement.“If the allegations are true, then it is a serious human rights violation, ” the commission observed in the order. The commission further noted that the issues raised in the complaint directly relate to the right to life and personal liberty guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution.Ward No. 56 comprises several villages, including Uttamapur, Subhadrapur, Tentulinali, Gopalpur (P), Amaniapatana, Mukameswar, Behera Sahi, Kazipatna, Balikuda (Nuabazar), Paika Sahi (P), Bhanpur (P), Rajnagar Patana, Sampur and Gopalpur Badhei Sahi.