NHRC Seeks Reports from Bihar Officials Over Muzaffarpur Septic Tank Deaths
The NHRC has taken suo motu cognizance of the deaths of two workers from asphyxiation inside a septic tank in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, and sought detailed reports within two weeks.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognizance of the reported death of two workers from asphyxiation inside a septic tank in Muzaffarpur district, Bihar.
The incident is reported to have occurred within the jurisdiction of Sikandarpur Police Station on 14 September 2026. The workers were removing shuttering from the septic tank when the incident took place.
In its preliminary view, the Commission observed that the contents of the report, if true, raise serious issues of violation of human rights.
Notices have accordingly been issued to the State Chief Secretary, the District Magistrate and the Senior Superintendent of Police, Muzaffarpur, seeking detailed reports on the matter within two weeks.
The reports are expected to cover the status of the investigation into the incident and the compensation, if any, provided to the next of kin of the deceased workers.
The matter is being investigated to determine whether there was any breach of safety protocols.