NHRC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant Explosion, Seeks Report from Andhra Pradesh Government

June 11, 2026 : New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India has taken suo motu cognizance of reports regarding a fatal explosion at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant operated by Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL) in Andhra Pradesh, which claimed the lives of eight workers and left at least six others with severe burn injuries.

According to a statement issued by the Commission, the incident occurred on June 8, 2026, at the plant’s Steel Melting Shop. Media reports alleged that workers’ unions had raised concerns over the management’s failure to adhere to safety protocols, which may have contributed to the accident.

Observing that the reported facts, if true, raise serious concerns relating to the violation of human rights, the NHRC has issued notices to the Chief Secretary of Andhra Pradesh, seeking a detailed report within two weeks.

The Commission has directed that the report include information on the health status of the injured workers, the medical treatment being provided to them, and details regarding the payment of ex-gratia compensation to the injured and to the families of the deceased workers.

As per media reports published on June 9, the explosion occurred when a ladle carrying approximately 150 tonnes of molten steel at a temperature of around 1,600 degrees Celsius suddenly exploded. The molten metal reportedly spilled across the shop floor, causing severe burn injuries to workers present at the site.

The NHRC stated that it will examine the report submitted by the state government to determine further action in the matter.