The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken independent action after learning of safety violations at bleaching units operating in Panipat district, Haryana. The Commission found credible reports that workers at these units are suffering severe chemical burn injuries because they are not provided basic protective equipment like gloves and boots. The NHRC has ordered an investigation by the district administration.
Key facts
- At least 10 to 12 workers from bleaching units in Panipat approach the Civil Hospital daily for treatment of chemical burn injuries
- Most bleaching units in the district operate without a valid No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Pollution Control Board
- Chemical hazards include Hydrochloric Acid and Sodium Hypochlorite
- Workers lack protective gear including boots, gloves and other safety equipment
- Chemical wastewater is being discharged directly into pits instead of being properly disposed
- The NHRC has given the Panipat District Magistrate two weeks to submit a detailed report
What the NHRC found
The Commission reviewed media reports from 30 September 2026 about hazardous conditions in Panipat’s bleaching industry. These units use strong chemicals to bleach textiles and other materials, but operate in violation of environmental and labour safety rules. The NHRC determined that if the reports are accurate, they describe serious violations of workers’ fundamental rights to safe working conditions and health protection.
Safety violations at these units
Workers handling dangerous chemicals suffer burns on their hands and feet, along with skin allergies and other injuries. The lack of protective equipment means their skin is in direct contact with Hydrochloric Acid and Sodium Hypochlorite regularly. Beyond personal injuries, the units also create environmental hazards by disposing chemical waste improperly. Wastewater containing hazardous chemicals is being dumped into pits on or near the premises instead of being treated and disposed safely.
The absence of a valid Pollution Control Board NOC shows these units may be operating illegally. A No Objection Certificate confirms that an industrial unit meets environmental standards and is licensed to operate. Units without this certificate have not passed pollution checks and should not be functioning.
What NHRC can do
The NHRC is India’s independent body responsible for investigating and addressing human rights violations. It can take action on its own after receiving credible reports, as it has done here. The Commission has the power to investigate, make recommendations to government agencies, and demand compliance from officials. It can suggest prosecution of those responsible for unsafe conditions and compensation for injured workers.
What happens next
The Panipat District Magistrate must now conduct a thorough investigation and submit findings to the NHRC within two weeks. The report should cover the number of bleaching units operating illegally, the number of workers affected, details of injuries recorded, environmental damage caused, and what enforcement action has been taken or will be taken. The NHRC will review this report and may issue further directions to ensure workers are protected and units comply with laws.
What this means for workers and citizens
This action may lead to immediate safety improvements for bleaching unit workers in Panipat. Authorities may be directed to inspect all units, shut down those without proper authorization, ensure workers receive protective equipment, and provide medical care and compensation to injured workers. The case also signals that the NHRC will hold district officials accountable for allowing unsafe industrial operations. For citizens living near these units, proper waste disposal requirements could reduce environmental contamination of water and soil.