NHRC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Suspicious Death of Female Inmate at Jharkhand Remand Home

May 7, 2026 : The National Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognizance of the reported death of a 19-year-old female inmate at a Remand Home located in the Charki Pahadi area of Deoghar under suspicious circumstances.

In a press release issued on May 7, 2026, the Commission stated that the inmate died on May 2, 2026, and that the exact cause of death is yet to be ascertained. Taking note of the seriousness of the allegations, the NHRC observed that the contents of the media report, if found true, disclose a grave issue concerning violation of human rights.

The Commission has accordingly issued notices to the Chief Secretary of the Government of Jharkhand and the Superintendent of Police, Deoghar, directing them to submit a detailed report within two weeks.

According to media reports cited by the Commission, the inmate’s health allegedly deteriorated suddenly following which the staff of the Remand Home shifted her to Deoghar Sadar Hospital. She reportedly died during treatment.

The NHRC also noted with concern that five inmates of the same Remand Home have reportedly died since January 1, 2026. The repeated deaths have raised serious questions regarding the security measures, living conditions, healthcare facilities, and overall management of the institution.

The Commission’s intervention is expected to bring scrutiny to the functioning of custodial and rehabilitation institutions in the state, particularly concerning the safety and welfare of women inmates housed in such facilities.