NHRC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Kolkata Warehouse Collapse, Seeks Report from West Bengal Government

July 3, 2026 : The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of the tragic collapse of an under-construction warehouse in the Taratala area of Kolkata, West Bengal, in which at least five labourers lost their lives and around twenty others sustained injuries. The Commission has sought a detailed report from the West Bengal government and other concerned authorities over the incident, observing that the matter raises serious human rights concerns.

Acting on media reports published on June 25, 2026, the NHRC noted that nearly forty labourers were working at the construction site when the concrete casting of the iron structure of the under-construction warehouse suddenly collapsed on June 24, trapping several workers beneath the debris. Reports indicated that 12 to 15 workers were feared trapped immediately after the collapse, prompting large-scale rescue operations.

The Commission has observed that if the allegations reported in the media are found to be true, they point to a serious violation of the labourers’ right to life and safety. It has also taken note of allegations that the sanctioned building plan was faulty, which may have contributed to the collapse.

In response, the NHRC has issued notices to the Chief Secretary of West Bengal, the Commissioner of Kolkata Police, and the Municipal Commissioner, directing them to submit a comprehensive report within two weeks. The Commission has asked the authorities to provide details regarding the progress of the investigation, the circumstances leading to the collapse, and the compensation, if any, paid to the families of the deceased and the injured workers.

The Commission will examine the reports to determine whether there was any negligence or failure by the authorities that resulted in the loss of lives and injuries to the workers, and whether further action is warranted to protect the human rights of labourers engaged in hazardous construction activities.