OHRC orders CESU to pay Rs 2.5 lakh to Electrocution Victim

In a landmark verdict, the Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) headed by Acting Chairperson Dr. RN Bohidar and Member Justice BK Mishra, directed the Central Electric Supply Utility of Odisha (CESU) to pay a compensation of Rs 2.5 lakh to an electrocution victim.

It can be recalled that Mrs. Anupama Moharana and her mother-in-law Brahmani Bewa, had come in contact with a live Electric Conductor at Benupur village under Balianta police station, on April 11, 2012. The live conductor was snapped from the overhead main electric line on the night of April 10, 2012 by thunderstorm.

The duo lost their sense and admitted to Hi-Tech Hospital. Brahmani Bewa died of electrocution, while Anupama survived, but suffered weakened limbs, who led to paralysis.

The victim had sought Rs 10 lakh compensation, which was turned down by the CESU, terming it as an accident or ‘Act of God’. However, the petitioner had alleged that the CESU officials charged the electric conductor without rectifying the defects, which led to the tragedy.

The OHRC has ordered the CESU to pay the compensation of Rs 2.5 lakh to the victim within two months or face strict action. The commission will wait the CESU Compliance till January 10, 2014.