The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has granted eight weeks to the Nabarangpur district magistrate and collector to take appropriate action on a complaint regarding the alleged lack of road connectivity and basic infrastructure in 258 villages of the district.
NHRC Order and Timeline
The commission issued the directive on Friday while disposing of a complaint filed by Jeypore-based human rights activist and advocate Anup Kumar Patro on February 26, 2026. In its order, the NHRC stated that the complaint had been conveyed to the Nabarangpur district magistrate and collector with a direction to take action. The authorities have been instructed to associate the complainant and affected villagers during the process and inform them about the steps taken.
Details of the Complaint
In his complaint, Patro alleged large-scale human rights violations arising from the absence of all-weather roads, electricity, and other essential facilities in villages spread across Jharigaon, Raighar, Tentulikhunti, Umerkote, Papadahandi, Nandahandi, Dabugaon, and Kosagumuda blocks of Nabarangpur district. According to the complaint, nearly 13 lakh residents, most of whom belong to Scheduled Tribe and economically weaker communities, continue to face severe hardships even after almost 79 years of independence.
The complaint, based on media reports, claimed that many villages become virtually inaccessible during the monsoon due to muddy tracks, forest routes, and overflowing riverbanks. In Jharigaon block alone, at least 18 villages reportedly lack motorable roads, forcing residents to walk long distances to access hospitals, schools, and markets. The petition highlighted the difficulties faced by pregnant women, students, and the elderly, while also alleging the failure of solar lighting systems and inadequate healthcare access.
Alleged Violation of Fundamental Rights
Patro alleged that the prolonged neglect by present and former district authorities violated fundamental rights guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution, including the right to life, health, and dignified living. The activist sought immediate intervention through the construction of roads, emergency medical transport facilities, restoration of solar infrastructure, and preparation of a time-bound action plan by the Odisha government.
