NHRC notice to railway, Delhi govt over unhygienic conditions in Zakhira

The National Human Rights Commission has issued a notice to the Indian Railways and the Delhi government over an allegation that thousands of people are living in “unhygienic” condition and without proper basic amenities near rail lines at Zakhira here.

The Commission has sent notice to the Chairman, Railway Board, and the Chief Secretary, Delhi government and called for a detailed report in four weeks.

The allegation has been made in a representation by a public representative that “20-30 thousand people” are living in a very “pathetic condition” near the railway lines in Moti Nagar area of New Delhi without basic amenities of drinking water, toilets and drainage system, NHRC said in a statement on Wednesday.

The Commission has observed that the matter relates to a serious issue of violation of human rights of the residents of the area. 

The authorities concerned are required to provide basic amenities like drinking water, toilets and provision for cleanliness for the habitants.

These residents are allegedly forced to live in unhygienic conditions due to “negligent attitude” of the authorities. Whenever efforts are initiated, the authorities do not proceed further as the railway authorities raise their objections to it, the NHRC claimed.