NHRC Seeks Report on Jharkhand Steel Plant Explosion That Killed One, Injured Seven

April 9, 2026 : The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a reported explosion at a private steel plant in Ramgarh district that left one worker dead and seven others seriously injured.

The incident occurred on April 6, 2026, in the Hesla area of Jharkhand during working hours. According to media reports, the explosion is believed to have been triggered by excessive furnace temperature, possibly caused by a technical fault or failure to follow prescribed safety norms.

Taking note of the report, the Commission observed that if the facts are accurate, the incident raises serious concerns regarding the violation of the victims’ human rights, particularly workplace safety and protection standards.

The NHRC has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police (DGP), Jharkhand, directing them to submit a detailed report within two weeks. The Commission has asked for specific information on the condition of the injured workers, the status of the investigation, and whether compensation has been provided to the next of kin (NoK) of the deceased and the injured.

As per initial reports, the injured workers were first taken to nearby medical facilities and later shifted to a hospital in Ranchi for advanced treatment. One of the injured succumbed during treatment.

The Commission’s intervention is expected to examine accountability and ensure that appropriate relief and corrective measures are taken.