NHRC Suo Motu Cognizance in MP | 20 Dec 2025
Why in News?
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report that six children tested HIV positive following blood transfusion at a district hospital in Satna, Madhya Pradesh.
Key Points
- Incident: Six children undergoing treatment for Thalassemia reportedly became HIV positive after blood transfusion at Satna district hospital, raising serious health concerns.
- Human Rights Concern: The NHRC observed that the incident, if true, constitutes a violation of children’s rights to health, safety, and protection.
- Systemic Issue: Similar cases have been reported in other parts of the country, indicating possible lapses in blood safety protocols nationwide.
- Notices Issued: NHRC has issued notices to Chief Secretaries of all States and Union Territories, seeking detailed reports within four weeks.
- Reporting Requirement: States/UTs have been asked to provide information on action taken or proposed to investigate and prevent such incidents in the future.
- Ongoing Investigation: Local authorities in Madhya Pradesh are probing whether other hospitals may have been involved in similar cases to ensure accountability.
- About HIV: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that contains single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) as its genetic material and attacks the body’s immune system, thereby weakening the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases.
- Effect: Attacks CD4 (T helper) cells, a type of White Blood cells, thus weakening the immune system.
- Progression: Can lead to AIDS if untreated.
- Transmission: Through blood transfusion, sexual contact, mother-to-child, and contaminated needles.
- Treatment: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) controls the virus and prevents progression.
- Cure: No cure, but early treatment improves life expectancy and quality.
- National Human Rights Commission (NHRC): It is a statutory body established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, mandated to protect and promote human rights.