NHRC, India takes suomotu cognizance of the reported death of 16 people due to consumption of adulterated milk in the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh since mid-February

**Executive Summary** The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken *suo motu* cognizance of 16 deaths in East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh, linked to ethylene glycol-adulterated milk consumption since mid-February 2026. Notices have been issued to the State Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) citing potential human rights violations. A detailed report regarding the investigation, health statuses, and victim compensation is required within two weeks. **Key Points / Main Content** **Incident Details** * 16 deaths have been reported in Lalacheruvu, Chowdeshwarannagar, and Swarupnagar due to toxic milk consumption. * The cases first emerged in mid-February 2026, with victims experiencing abdominal pain, vomiting, anuria, and acute renal dysfunction. * At least four additional persons are currently undergoing medical treatment for similar symptoms. **Contamination Source and Effects** * The milk was reportedly adulterated with ethylene glycol, a toxic substance that caused multi-organ failure in victims. * The suspected source of the contamination is a dairy in Narsapuram village, which supplied milk to more than 100 local households. * Vulnerable groups, specifically elderly persons and young children, constituted the majority of the victims. **NHRC Directives** * The NHRC has categorized the incident as a serious violation of human rights. * Authorities must provide a status update on the health of those affected and the progress of the criminal investigation. * The state is required to report on any compensation paid to the next of kin (NoK) of the deceased. **Impact Analysis** **State Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP)** **Impact** They are the primary officials held accountable by the NHRC for addressing the administrative and legal failures surrounding the poisoning. **Action Required** They must conduct a thorough investigation and submit a comprehensive report to the NHRC within two weeks covering health statuses, investigative findings, and compensation details. **The Dairy in Narsapuram Village** **Impact** Identified as the suspected source of the toxic contamination affecting over 100 households. **Action Required** The entity is subject to a formal investigation by state police and health authorities regarding the adulteration of its products. **Affected Residents and Next of Kin (NoK)** **Impact** Families have suffered the loss of 16 lives, while others face ongoing health crises including multi-organ failure and renal dysfunction. **Action Required** Survivors require ongoing medical treatment, and the next of kin are entitled to receive status updates on investigations and any mandated financial compensation.

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