Haryana Human Rights Commission Takes Stern Action in Medical Student Burn Case
The Haryana Human Rights Commission has issued a firm directive, summoning the investigating officer to appear with the complete probe report on April 6. This urgent summons pertains to the distressing case of Bhawna, a medical student hailing from Rajasthan's Alwar district, who suffered devastating 80% burn injuries in a fire incident at Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (CCS HAU) nearly nine months ago.
Commission Member Warns Against Compromising Judicial Process
Commission member Deep Bhatia delivered a clear and uncompromising message, stating that no tolerance would be shown for any compromise with the judicial process. This stern warning underscores the commission's commitment to ensuring a thorough and impartial investigation into the tragic incident.
Mother's Complaint Alleges Police Inaction and Accused Release
According to the formal complaint lodged by the deceased student's mother, Gayatri Yadav, the horrific incident occurred on April 24, 2025. She has alleged that a man identified as Udesh Kumar deliberately set her daughter on fire inside her university room. Although a First Information Report (FIR) was registered following the complaint, Gayatri Yadav claims that the accused was subsequently released by the police and that no effective or substantive action has been taken so far. Seeking justice for her daughter, she approached the Human Rights Commission, demanding a fair and unbiased investigation.
Investigation Transferred to State Crime Branch for Deeper Probe
Taking serious cognizance of the gravity of the allegations, the commission initially sought a detailed status report. Following specific directions issued by Deep Bhatia, the investigation was subsequently transferred to the State Crime Branch located in Bhondsi, Gurugram, to ensure a more comprehensive and independent inquiry.
Procedural Steps Taken, But Commission Demands More Than Formalities
The submitted report outlined several procedural steps undertaken in the investigation:
- Statements of the involved parties were officially recorded on December 12, 2025.
- The case file was presented before the State Police Complaints Authority in Panchkula on December 29, 2025.
- A thorough inspection of the crime scene was conducted on January 12, 2026.
However, the commission has critically observed that mere completion of procedural formalities is insufficient. It has emphasized the need for substantive progress and conclusive findings in the case.
Next Hearing Scheduled with Strict Directives for SIT Officer
Assistant registrar Dr. Puneet Arora confirmed that the commission has directed the officer in-charge of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to appear in person at the upcoming hearing. The officer is mandated to bring all original records, documents, and physical evidence directly related to the case. This crucial hearing is scheduled for April 6 at the Camp Court, New PWD Rest House, B&R, in Gurugram.
Threat of Strict Legal Action Against Negligence or Bias
Deep Bhatia issued a strong warning, stating that if any negligence, bias, or deliberate laxity is discovered in the investigation process, strict legal action will be initiated against the concerned officials. He emphasized that the dignity of human life and fairness in the legal process remain paramount principles. The commission is firmly committed to upholding these values and ensuring justice is served in this tragic case.
