The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has directed the District Collector of Bhadrak to save the local people and pilgrims from the poisonous water of Sibaganga pond near lord Akhandalmani temple.
The apex human rights body issued the direction acting on a petition filed by Supreme Court lawyer and rights activist Radhakanta Tripathy. He said that some miscreants poisoned the water of the pond on May 13 last for fishing. But it led to the death of all aquatic animals in the pond. Within a few days, the water started giving a foul smell and became unsuitable for consumption, Tripathy contended.
The issue is serious due to the fact that thousands of devotees throng the place and use the water of the pond which is believed to be holy and pure, he said.
Tripathy urged the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to direct the district administration to investigate into the case and take appropriate action against all those involved in the nefarious act. He also demanded action against the officials due to whose slackness the incident occurred.
The petitioner also requested the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to direct the State Government to take steps for cleaning the pond and making it fit for human use. Besides, he requested the commission to direct the Government to pay adequate compensation to all victims of the poisoning.