A complaint was filed before the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) alleging an ongoing human rights violation affecting more than 50 school and college students of Pachedoddi village, Karnataka, who are forced to walk around 14 kms every day through dense forests, wildlife-prone areas, and tiger habitats due to the absence of road connectivity and public transport.
The complainant alleged that children are exposed to serious risks, extreme exhaustion, mental trauma, and disruption of education due to the hazardous journey that they are forced to take every day. It was also mentioned that despite repeated representations, official visits, and public appeals filed over several years, even basic transport or road infrastructure had not been provided.
By proceedings dated 23-12-2025, NHRC took cognizance of the matter under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 (Act), and directed the Registry to issue notice to the Principal Secretary, Department of Primary and Secondary Education, Government of Karnataka, Bangalore, and the DM, Chamarajnagar, Karnataka, directing them to inquire into the allegations and to submit an Action Taken Report within two weeks. As there was no response, a reminder was issued on 03-02-2026.
NHRC referred to the Supreme Court’s decision in Manager Palathingal MLP School, Parappanangadiv v. Sethumadhavan PK & Ors. (Civil Appeal No. 11359 of 2017) and noted that if the complainant’s submission is found to be true, then the matter would amount to a violation of the students’ fundamental rights, particularly the rights to life, safety, dignity, and education. A complete lack of response from the Karnataka government was also noted.
Hence, by the order dated 01-04-2026, NHRC again issued directions to the Principal Secretary, Department of Primary and Secondary Education, Government of Karnataka, Bangalore, and the DM, Chamarajnagar, Karnataka, for submission of an Action Taken Report within four weeks, failing which, NHRC would invoke Section 13 of the Act regarding personal appearance.
Appearances:
Complainant – Advocate Y. Balachander Reddy
National Human Rights Commission Click here