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
