NHRC Seeks Report On Chhattisgarh Children Crossing River Via Iron Ladder

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken notice of a media report that highlights the plight of dozens of children in Chhattisgarh who are forced to climb a narrow and slippery iron ladder to cross the Pairi river and reach their schools.

The incident has been reported from the Mainpur Block area of Gariyaband district, where an unfinished bridge has been under construction for nearly six years. Despite assurances from the authorities that the bridge would be completed in six months, the project remains incomplete, leaving the children with no choice but to use the iron ladder.

The NHRC has observed that the contents of the media report, if true, raise serious issues of violation of human rights. The Commission has issued a notice to the Chief Secretary, Government of Chhattisgarh, calling for a detailed report on the matter within two weeks.

The media report, which was carried on September 3, 2026, states that the bridge between Deharguda and Khambhatha in Mainpur Block has been under construction for nearly six years. The villagers were assured that the bridge would be completed in six months, but the project has been delayed.

The situation becomes even more precarious during the monsoon season, when the shallow river turns into a torrent. The children are forced to climb the 20-foot-high iron ladder, which is attached to the unfinished bridge, to cross the river and reach their schools.

The NHRC's decision to seek a report on the matter is a significant step towards addressing the issue and ensuring the safety and well-being of the children. The Commission's intervention is expected to put pressure on the authorities to complete the bridge and provide a safe passage for the children.

The incident highlights the lack of infrastructure and basic amenities in rural areas, which can have a significant impact on the lives of people, especially children. The delay in completing the bridge project is a clear example of the apathy and neglect of the authorities towards the needs of the people.

The NHRC's action is a reminder that the rights of children are paramount and that it is the responsibility of the authorities to ensure their safety and well-being. The Commission's intervention is expected to bring relief to the children and their families, who have been struggling to access basic amenities due to the lack of infrastructure.

In conclusion, the NHRC's decision to seek a report on the matter is a significant step towards addressing the issue and ensuring the safety and well-being of the children. The incident highlights the need for the authorities to prioritize the needs of the people and complete the bridge project at the earliest.

The safety and well-being of children are of utmost importance, and it is the responsibility of the authorities to ensure that they have access to basic amenities and infrastructure. The NHRC's intervention is a reminder that the rights of children are paramount and that it is the duty of the authorities to protect and promote their interests.