RIMS Adilabad fire: TGHRC seeks report on death of three infants

The Telangana Human Rights Commission has sought a detailed report on the RIMS Adilabad SNCU fire that killed three infants. The Commission wants details of the fire, safety arrangements, rescue measures and findings of any inquiry into the incident.

Hyderabad: The Telangana Human Rights Commission (TGHRC) on Wednesday sought a detailed report on the tragic fire incident at the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Adilabad, that killed three infants on Tuesday.

Taking suo motu cognizance of reports published in several newspapers regarding the fire incident, TGHRC Chairperson Dr Justice Shameem Akther asked Health, Medical and Family Welfare Department Principal Secretary Dr Christina Z Chongthu to submit a report covering the circumstances leading to the fire, the safety and maintenance arrangements in the SNCU. He also sought measures taken for rescue and treatment of the affected infants, and the findings of any inquiry conducted into the incident.

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According to reports, an alleged electrical short circuit involving an air-conditioning unit resulted in fire and dense smoke spreading through the SNCU, where about 27 newborn and preterm infants were undergoing treatment.

Three newborn infants died following the incident, while other infants were affected by smoke and breathing difficulties and were shifted to other wards and nearby hospitals for treatment.

The reports have also raised concerns regarding the maintenance and safety arrangements in the SNCU, including the condition of air-conditioning and electrical installations, fire alarms, fire-fighting equipment, emergency evacuation arrangements and other fire-safety measures.

Certain reports have also referred to alleged deficiencies in fire-safety preparedness and electrical-system maintenance. The Commission has considered it necessary to ascertain the facts and circumstances leading to the incident and the deaths of the infants. The matter has been posted to October 27, 2026, for further consideration.