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The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Thursday took suo motu cognisance of reports regarding the death of two persons and fatal injuries suffered by two others after inhaling toxic gas while cleaning a septic tank in Nandigram block of Vekutia village in Purba Medinipur district of West Bengal.

According to reports, the person who first entered the septic tank to clean it cried for help after inhaling poisonous gas. Hearing his cries, three of his family members rushed to rescue him but they also inhaled the toxic gas and lost consciousness. All four were rushed to the hospital but only two of them survived.

Observing that the incident raises questions about violation of human rights of the victims, the Commission has issued notices to the District Magistrate and the Superintendent of Police, Purba Medinipur calling for a detailed report within two weeks.

The report is expected to include the status of the investigation of the cases as well as compensation, if any, paid to the next of kin of the deceased persons.