Bhubaneswar: National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought an action-taken report from state govt over the prolonged closure of the advanced rehabilitation centre (ARC) at Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar.Acting on a complaint filed by lawyer and human rights activist Akhand, the commission observed that the allegations, if found true, could amount to a serious violation of the human rights of persons with disabilities. In an order issued on Sept 28, NHRC directed principal secretary of social security and empowerment of persons with disabilities department to conduct an inquiry and submit a report within two weeks.According to the complaint, ARC, established in March 2019 at a cost of Rs 20 crore, has remained closed for more than a year. The facility was equipped with robotic rehabilitation systems, prosthetic services and assistive technologies for patients suffering from stroke, neuromuscular disorders, brain injuries, polio and limb disabilities. It also provided free artificial limbs and therapy to underprivileged persons.The complainant alleged that the closure has deprived poor and marginalised persons with disabilities of critical rehabilitation services. He urged the commission to direct the authorities to explain the reasons for the shutdown and take immediate steps to restore operations at the centre.The petition also sought an independent inquiry to assess the impact of the closure on patients, recommend compensation where necessary, fix accountability for the delay in reopening the facility and provide interim rehabilitation support to affected beneficiaries.Taking note of the allegations, NHRC directed its registry to forward the complaint to Odisha govt and seek an expeditious inquiry. The commission asked the state authorities to furnish an action-taken report within two weeks of receiving the communication.The response of Odisha govt to NHRC’s direction is awaited. “It will have to explain reasons for prolonged non-functioning of the centre and steps proposed to restore the facility and put its publicly funded infrastructure and equipment back into service,” said Akhand.SSEPD department secretary Brundha D said she would go through NHRC’s order and look into the matter related to ARC.