The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the death of a minor Chakma girl who was allegedly employed as a live-in domestic worker in Roing in Arunachal Pradesh. The Commission has also asked the state government to explain why compensation of ₹10 lakh should not be granted to the family of the deceased child.The development was welcomed by the All India Chakma Students’ Union (AICSU), which said the Commission’s direction was an important step toward ensuring justice and accountability in the case.According to reports, the case came to the attention of the NHRC after a complaint was filed before the Commission on behalf of AICSU. The complaint raised concerns about possible human rights violations, illegal child labour and lapses in the investigation carried out by local authorities.
After examining the findings submitted by its Investigation Division, the Commission observed that the victim, believed to be around 13 years old, had allegedly been employed as a domestic worker. The Commission noted that employing a child in such work violates provisions of the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, as well as the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.Taking note of the circumstances surrounding the incident and concerns about the initial investigation, the NHRC recommended that the case be handed over to the CBI for an independent and impartial probe.The Commission also issued a show cause notice to the Chief Secretary of Arunachal Pradesh. In the notice, the state government has been asked to explain why compensation of ₹10 lakh should not be provided to the family of the deceased child for the alleged violation of her human rights.
In addition, the Commission directed the state authorities to initiate criminal proceedings against those responsible for the illegal employment of the minor. It also called for a departmental inquiry against officials who may have failed to perform their duties properly during the investigation.The NHRC further emphasised the need for stronger enforcement of child protection laws and better monitoring mechanisms to prevent such incidents in the future.
