NHRC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Gujarat Chemical Factory Explosion, Seeks Report

April 28, 2026 : The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report concerning an explosion and subsequent fire at a chemical factory in the Jhagadia GIDC industrial estate, Bharuch district, Gujarat, on 23 April 2026, which left at least 16 workers injured.

Noting that the contents of the report, if accurate, raise serious concerns of human rights violations, the Commission has issued notices to the Chief Secretary of Gujarat and the Superintendent of Police, Bharuch. It has called for a detailed report within two weeks, including the current health status of the injured workers, progress of the investigation, and details of any compensation provided.

As per the report published on 24 April 2026, preliminary inquiry suggests that technical or chemical factors may have caused the incident. The injured workers were admitted to nearby hospitals for treatment. The incident has also triggered concerns regarding industrial safety standards in the region and the need for strict adherence to safety protocols.