BS RAWAT
NEW DELHI: Holding a delivery at home as gross negligence, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has directed the Haryana government to pay Rs three lakh as relief to the family of the victim.

The complaint was filed by human rights activist Raj Hans Bansal.

According to a report by the Civil Surgeon, Palwal, the victim was due for delivery and was taken to CHC, Tappa, Palwal, Haryana for delivery. However, due to unavailability of doctor, the victim was taken back home where her delivery was conducted by ANM Anita. The patient’s health deteriorated and she died.

The Commission found that delivery was conducted by ANM Anita Rathi along with Ms Sushila at woman’s home, which it held to be gross negligence.

"Keeping in view the facts and circumstances of the case, the commission recommends to the Government of Haryana, through its chief secretary to pay compensation of Rs 3 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased,” an NHRC statement said.

"In the case, non-submission of the comments by the Haryana Government shows that they have nothing to say in the matter. In the opinion of the commission, a clear case of violation of human rights of the deceased is made out and the state government is vicariously liable to pay compensation to the next of kin of the deceased person," reads the NHRC order.

NHRC has asked the Haryana government, through its Chief Secretary, to pay the relief as recommended and submit the compliance report along with proof of payment within six to eight weeks.

"It is therefore, requested that the additional/complete report as directed by the Commission in the matter be sent latest by February 2, 2019, for further consideration by the Commission," the order stated.