NHRC issues notice to Karnataka chief secretary

11 March, 2013

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognizance of a media report, forwarded by an NGO, alleging serious health problems being faced by about 2,000 people who were evicted from Economically Weaker Section quarters of Ejipura, Bangaluru by the Bruhat Bangaluru Mahanagar Palika in January this year.

Issuing notice to the Chief Secretary, Govt. of Karnataka calling for a report within four weeks, the Commission has asked him to inform about the steps taken for the rehabilitation of the evicted people. He has also been asked to inform about the steps taken for basic amenities like food, drinking water, sanitation and health facilities to the ensure their human rights.

Reportedly, about 200 evicted families have made their temporary homes in the peripheries of the area from where they were removed. They have not been provided with any basic facilities. Diarrheal diseases, infections and other forms of water and air borne diseases are in rampant. There are no proper water, sanitation and toilet facilities.

The Commission had already taken cognizance of the forced eviction and harassment of victims by police. A notice was issued to the Chief Secretary and DGP, Karnataka early this year and the issue is under consideration.