NHRC asks K'jhar DM to give ex-gratia details

The Keonjhar Collector-cum-District Magistrate has been directed to submit details about the compensation along with proof paid to kin of nearly 50 deceased persons died in lung diseases in Madarangajodi and other villages in the district due to operation of illegal limestone mines before the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

The commission has also directed the labour Commissioner to submit an action-taken report against the illegal limestone units within four weeks.

The direction of the commission came after Human Rights Watch secretary moved NHRC requesting it to intervene in the matter.

She alleged that nearly 50 people of Madarangajodi village also known as a village of widows have lost their life in lungs disease due to negligence of the concerned authorities. Though the Keonjhar district administration and State Polution Control Board authorities have complied with the direction of the commission, but the district administration did not submit the compensation details.

The petitioner has urged the commission to ensure `50 lakh compensation to the kin of the deceased and `20 lakh to the affected persons.