TGHRC seeks report on cause of RIMS Adilabad fire, inquiry findings

The Telangana Human Rights Commission (TGHRC) has formally requested a comprehensive report from the state government following a tragic fire at the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Adilabad. The incident claimed the lives of five infants on September 21, 2026, prompting the Commission to take immediate action.

Chairperson Justice Shameem Akther's leadership has led the Commission to delve into the maintenance and safety protocols at the SNCU, including the state of air-conditioning, electrical systems, fire alarms, firefighting equipment, and emergency evacuation plans. The TGHRC believes it is crucial to uncover the exact sequence of events that resulted in the fire and the subsequent fatalities, as well as assess the adequacy of current safety measures at the facility.

To facilitate this investigation, the Commission has instructed the State Medical and Health Department's Principal Secretary to furnish a detailed report encompassing the incident's precursors, safety and upkeep at the SNCU, rescue and medical care provided to the affected infants, and any conclusions from an inquiry into the tragic event.