New Delhi, Nov 16: Taking a serious note of the death of a person due to electrocution in Andhra Pradesh, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a show cause notice to the southern power distribution company in the state, suggesting an interim compensation of Rs one lakh to the widow of the deceased. "A precious life was lost due to electrocution. The rule of strict liability must apply in such a case. It is a clear case of negligence on the part of the supplier of electricity in maintaining the services in safe conditions", the NHRC, which heard the matter at a recent full commission meeting, said in a press note.
Widow of Dirisam Lajer, who died as a result of electrocution on May 24, 1999, had petitioned the commission saying her husband had gone to the field for collecting fodder when he came in contact with live electric wire lying on the ground and was electrocuted. She prayed for grant of financial assistance.
A notice was issued by the commission earlier on May 28, 2001 to the secretary, department of power, Andhra Pradesh government and chairman of Andhra Pradesh Electricity Board calling for a report.
Bureau Report