Karnataka State Human Rights Commission inspects hostels, jail, bus stand in Raichur

The Karnataka State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC) on Wednesday conducted inspections at several public institutions in Raichur, including a hostel, bus stand, district prison and police stations, as part of its review of basic facilities and human rights conditions.

Commission chairman T. Shyam Bhat and member S.K. Vantigodi arrived in the city in the afternoon and began visits after a brief halt.

The team first visited the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Pre-Matric Girls’ Hostel near Rangamandir, where they interacted with students and enquired about facilities.

Students and hostel authorities pointed out overcrowding, with five to seven residents sharing a room. The commission stressed the need for adequate accommodation based on student strength and advised staff to maintain hygiene, ensure use of clean water for cooking, and conduct regular health check-ups and awareness programmes. The team also inspected the kitchen and storage area to assess the quality of foodgrains.

Later, the commission visited the central bus stand, where passengers complained of inadequate services, particularly on the Raichur–Lingsugur and Raichur–Manvi routes.

Commuters alleged irregular operations, a lack of stoppages and inconvenience to students. The chairman said the issues would be taken up in a meeting with the Deputy Commissioner. The team also checked the expiry dates of items sold in shops at the bus stand.

At the district prison, the commission members interacted with inmates and enquired about legal aid, healthcare, and basic amenities. They inspected prison cells, including those housing women inmates, and reviewed CCTV camera surveillance and overall management.

Assistant Superintendent Anita S. Hiremani briefed the team on prison administration.

The commission also visited the Sadar Bazar police station and examined records, including the crime register and Police Station Records (PSR). At the Women’s Police Station, the team inspected the child-friendly room and reviewed facilities for handling cases involving women and children.