NGT Disposes of Death Compensation Case in Harda Factory Blast, Focus Shifts to Injuries
In a significant development just days before the second anniversary of the tragic Harda firecracker factory explosion, the Central Bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) was informed on Wednesday that compensation has been fully disbursed to the families of all 13 victims who perished in the devastating incident. The tribunal, after reviewing the submissions, decided to close this chapter of the legal proceedings, marking a step toward closure for the bereaved families.
Higher Compensation Paid to Bereaved Families
State government counsel Prashant M Harne presented details before the tribunal, revealing that each family of the deceased has received Rs 21.50 lakh. This amount notably exceeds the compensation calculated under the Supreme Court's guidelines established in the landmark Sarla Verma case. The tribunal, comprising judicial member Sheo Kumar Singh and expert member Sudhir Kumar Chaturvedi, acknowledged that a reasonable amount had already been paid in these death cases. Consequently, it opted not to intervene further, stating that the matter stands finally settled as all parties are in agreement.
The tribunal clarified that any individual seeking higher compensation may approach the appropriate legal forum with supporting evidence, such as income documents and other relevant proofs. During the hearing, counsel for the intervener, Avani Bansal, raised concerns about an interim application regarding the exact compensation under the Sarla Verma formula. However, the tribunal responded that since a reasonable sum had been disbursed and consensus reached, the issue of death compensation is now resolved.
Pending Compensation for House Damage and Injuries
While the death compensation case has been disposed of, the tribunal highlighted ongoing issues related to house damage and injuries from the blast. The additional district magistrate (ADM) of Harda informed the court that over Rs 23 lakh remains unpaid to 33 families whose houses were damaged in the explosion. The ADM assured the tribunal that the remaining amount would be released soon using available administrative resources, prompting the NGT to also dispose of the house damage compensation case.
Notably, three women from Harda appeared during the hearing, seeking payment for repairs to their damaged homes. Their representations were taken into account, with the state admitting that Rs 23.24 lakh is still pending. The tribunal's decision to close this aspect follows the state's commitment to expedite the payments.
However, the tribunal emphasized that compensation for those injured in the incident—covering both grievous and simple injuries—is still pending. The state government has been directed to submit detailed charts at the next hearing, scheduled for February 12, showing the amounts paid and pending, with support from the district administration. This move ensures continued scrutiny and accountability in addressing the full scope of the blast's aftermath.
Background and Implications
The Harda firecracker factory blast, which occurred two years ago, was a catastrophic event that resulted in multiple fatalities, injuries, and significant property damage. The NGT's suo motu petition had been addressing compensation for the 13 deaths and damage to 33 houses. With the death compensation now settled, the focus shifts to ensuring timely payments for house repairs and fair compensation for the injured, underscoring the tribunal's role in upholding justice and relief for affected communities.
This development comes as a reminder of the importance of adhering to safety regulations and legal frameworks in industrial operations, with the NGT's oversight playing a crucial role in mitigating the impact of such disasters on victims and their families.
