Discover how the Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC), led by Justice Arindam Lodh, tackles negligence at GB Pant Hospital and border villagers’ grievances in Matinagar under West Tripura.
Agartala, May 8, 2025 – The Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC), under the leadership of Chairperson Justice Arindam Lodh, has launched two high-profile investigations to address pressing concerns in public healthcare and border community welfare.
A human rights activist said, the moves are crucial in safeguarding human rights of the vulnerable section of the state.
Tripura Human Rights Commission visits GB Pant Hospital
Justice Lodh led a surprise inspection at GB Pant Hospital in Agartala on May 7. The visit came up after news report of a local Bengali newspaper regarding alleged negligence.
The news article detailed the plight of 54-year-old Madan Das, who was reportedly left unattended outside the hospital’s Trauma Center despite the presence of medical and security staff.
After the news, the patient was taken care of by the hospital but the man died later.
The news article, which questioned the erosion of humanity in healthcare, spurred the THRC into action.
Accompanied by Member Secretary Udit Choudhuri, Secretary Ratan Biswas, and Deputy SP Lalhim Molsom, Justice Lodh met with Medical Superintendent Dr. Sankar Chakraborty and senior physician Dr. Kanak Choudhury.
The team uncovered that deceased Das was admitted only after media coverage brought attention to his case. Tragically, he succumbed to his condition on May 6 allegedly due to delayed medical care.
Post-inspection, the THRC convened a meeting with representatives from Agartala Government Medical College (AGMC), the Public Works Department (PWD), and other stakeholders to devise immediate solutions.
The Commission called for standardized protocols to manage cases of abandoned or destitute patients and proposed a multi-departmental awareness campaign on May 15, involving Social Welfare, PWD, Drinking Water and Sanitation (DWS), and local NGOs.
Additionally, an inter-agency task force was recommended to address systemic hospital challenges.
The PWD was directed to assess the hospital’s infrastructure, focusing on areas housing prisoner patients, to eliminate safety risks.
The THRC also suggested repurposing a nearby under-construction building as a shelter for unattended patients. All involved departments must submit a detailed report within four weeks to ensure accountability and progress.
THRC Intervenes in Border Villagers’ Rights Issues
In a separate effort, the THRC responded to grievances from 323 Indian citizens residing beyond the border fencing in Matinagar under the West Tripura district.
These villagers reported severe disruptions caused by erratic border gate closures. Previously open from 6 am to 8 pm, the gates are now frequently shut during the day and locked after 5 p.m., hampering daily routines, children’s education, and access to essential services.
Residents also raised concerns about being denied electricity despite paying bills, restrictions on purchasing household electrical appliances, and obstacles in conducting basic home repairs. Access to burial grounds has further compounded their woes.
Justice Lodh promptly instructed the West Tripura District Magistrate to investigate and submit a report by May 21.
The Managing Director of the Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL) was also summoned to address the electricity-related complaints.
A follow-up hearing is slated for May 21 to review findings and ensure corrective measures.
A Bold Step Toward Justice and Dignity
According to an Agartala based senior journalist, the THRC’s swift interventions underscore its dedication to rooting out human rights violations and systemic inefficiencies.
Justice Lodh’s proactive approach has been lauded by local observers, with Ratan Nama, an elderly patient expressing optimism that GB Hospital authority would become more caring particularly in case of Elderly and helpless patients.
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Notably THRC has prioritized rapid and collaborative actions to uphold justice and dignity for Tripura’s most vulnerable communities.
These developments mark another crucial moment for Tripura, as the THRC’s efforts shine a spotlight on critical issues while fostering hope for meaningful reform in healthcare and border community welfare.
