The Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC) has directed prison authorities to ensure payment of Rs 1.5 lakh compensation to convict prisoner Sarathi Sarkar, while closing proceedings related to its earlier recommendation to shift him to Kolkata’s SSKM Hospital for advanced medical treatment.
In its July 8, 2026 order, the Commission had recommended Sarkar’s transfer to a hospital with advanced facilities after observing alleged negligence and delay in providing him appropriate treatment. It had also ordered payment of Rs 1.5 lakh as compensation within 30 days.
During subsequent hearings, however, the Commission was informed that Sarkar had already undergone surgery for bilateral ACL tears at AGMC & GBP Hospital in Agartala on June 20. He was discharged on June 25 and had reportedly recovered considerably by late July.
Appearing before the Commission, IG (Prisons) Upendra Jamatia explained that Sarkar was not shifted to Kolkata because AGMC & GBP Hospital had acquired the necessary equipment and facilities to perform the required surgery.
Jamatia informed the Commission that Sarkar was examined again on July 27 and was found to be walking properly, with only mild pain in his knees.
The Commission noted that although the treatment had ultimately been successful, prison authorities should have informed it before proceeding with the surgery in Agartala instead of implementing its recommendation to transfer Sarkar to Kolkata.
However, considering Sarkar’s recovery and the absence of further complaints regarding his treatment, the Commission decided not to pursue the procedural lapse under Section 18(c) of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
The compensation issue, meanwhile, remains unresolved. The Commission noted that the Rs 1.5 lakh recommended for Sarkar had not yet been paid.
Jamatia assured the Commission that the prison authorities were taking necessary steps in consultation with the Home Department to release the compensation.
Taking note of the assurance, the Commission refrained from passing any adverse order at this stage. It directed that the matter be listed again after one month for submission of a compliance report regarding payment.
The case has highlighted issues surrounding healthcare for prisoners, administrative accountability and timely implementation of human rights recommendations. While Sarkar’s medical treatment has concluded successfully, payment of the compensation remains pending.
