Punjab & Haryana HC Directs Expedited Compensation for Electrocution Victims as per PSPCL Policy: "Apply Policy to Pending Cases, Subject to Proving Negligence"

In a significant ruling, the Punjab and Haryana High Court, under the bench of Hon'ble Mr. Justice Vinod S. Bhardwaj, has directed the Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd. (PSPCL) to efficiently process and disburse compensation claims for victims of electrocution. This order pertains to multiple petitions seeking redress for fatal and non-fatal injuries sustained due to electrocution.

The judgment, dated December 15, 2023, encompasses a wide array of petitions, ranging from CWP-11626-2023 to CWP-27831-2023. These petitions involve regular and contractual employees of the Electricity Department and private individuals who have suffered due to electrocution.

Justice Bhardwaj observed, "The PSPCL's policy, detailed under Office Order No.10, I.R.O. 676, Dated 08.12.2023, must be applied to all pending cases, subject to determination of the negligence of the Authority concerned." This statement underscores the court's emphasis on the necessity of a systematic approach to compensation in cases of electrocution.

The policy outlined by PSPCL includes specific provisions for different categories of victims – regular employees, contractual workers, and private individuals (both adults and minors). The compensation structure is aligned with the provisions of the Employee's Compensation Act, 1923, and the Employees State Insurance Act, 1948.

In his detailed order, Justice Bhardwaj included an illustrative table demonstrating the calculation of compensation amounts under various scenarios. This move is seen as an effort to bring clarity and transparency to the compensation process.

The court directed the petitions to be disposed of with instructions for the petitioners to approach PSPCL with their compensation claims, as per the policy. Additionally, the PSPCL and other respondent authorities have been instructed to consider and decide upon these claims expeditiously and within the time frame stipulated in the policy.

Date of Decision: 15 August 2023

PARAMJEET SINGH VS PUNJAB STATE POWER CORPORATION LTD. AND ANR.