NHRC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Dehradun Hospital Fire, Seeks Report from Uttarakhand Authorities

May 26, 2026 : The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report concerning a fire incident at a private hospital in Dehradun district, Uttarakhand, on May 20, 2026.

According to reports, 14 patients were rescued from the hospital and shifted to a nearby medical facility for treatment following the fire. Among the rescued patients, one woman was declared dead, while four others were later discharged after receiving medical care.

Taking note of the incident, the Commission observed that if the reported facts are accurate, they raise a serious issue relating to the violation of human rights. In response, the NHRC has issued notices to the Chief Secretary of Uttarakhand and the Senior Superintendent of Police, Dehradun, seeking a detailed report on the matter within two weeks.

As per the media report published on May 21, 2026, the incident was allegedly triggered by a short circuit in an air conditioner, leading to a blast and the subsequent spread of fire within the hospital premises.

The NHRC is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident, including safety measures at the hospital and the response of the concerned authorities, after receiving the reports from the state government and police officials.