Telangana Rights Panel Holds State Liable in PHC Fan Fall, Orders ₹50,000 Compensation

Overview

• The Telangana Human Rights Commission took suo motu cognizance of June 2025 reports that a ceiling fan fell on a newborn at the Gudihathnoor Primary Health Centre in Adilabad.
• Medical records noted a right parietal contusion, a non-displaced skull fracture and a thin subdural haematoma, with the baby treated at RIMS and later discharged without reported neurological symptoms.
• The PHC medical officer reported that a rusted bolt separated from the hook, and a TGMSIDC inspection found the fan’s downrod had failed at a corroded joint.
• The Commission rejected claims the event was a mere accident, ruling that the State failed in its statutory and constitutional duty to maintain safe public health facilities.
• The order directs immediate payment of ₹50,000 to mother Payal Jadhav, with the Chief Secretary to ensure compliance within two months, as authorities report repairs and wider fixture inspections already underway.