Bhubaneswar: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought a report from the Odisha government on the mishap that took place at Bhubaneswar’s Lingaraj Temple on Maha Shivaratri.
The Commission took suo motu cognisance of the incident in which a servitor sustained critical injuries after falling from a height while carrying the sacred ‘Mahadeepa’ as part of Maha Shivratri rituals on February 26.
The NHRC has issued notices to the District Magistrate of Khurda, and the Special Secretary of the state Home Department, seeking an Action Taken Report (ATR) within one week.
Sources said a hearing has been scheduled for July 21, during the Commission’s Camp Sitting scheduled in Bhubaneswar, where all officials concerned, the complainant, and the victim servitor Jogendra Samartha or their representatives are expected to be present.
The Commission voiced concern over the mishap after a formal complaint was filed by advocate and human rights activist Akhand, highlighting the need for ensuring safety standards and protective protocols.
It may be recalled that the servitor of Samartha Nijog sustained critical injuries after falling from a height of around 20 feet while carrying the ‘Mahadeepa’ (holy lamp) to the peak of the shrine in Bhubaneswar. The incident had also caused minor injuries to two other priests and a police official due to hot oil spillage.