Odisha Human Rights Commission Orders Compensation for Murder Victim's Family
The Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) has taken a significant step to address the plight of a grieving family by recommending a substantial compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the next of kin of a man from Subarnapur who was tragically murdered on January 26, 2024. This decisive order was issued on Friday, aiming to provide crucial financial relief to the elderly parents of the deceased, Damburu Adhikari, who relied entirely on their son as the sole breadwinner.
Background of the Case and Commission's Rationale
Damburu Adhikari was not just a victim of a brutal crime; he was the backbone of his family's livelihood. He operated a tea stall and also organized a band party, activities that were the primary source of income for his parents. Adding to the family's vulnerability, Damburu belonged to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community, placing them within a marginalized section of society. The Subarnapur Superintendent of Police confirmed that a chargesheet has been filed against the accused in the murder case. However, despite this legal progress, no victim compensation had been disbursed to the family, a point explicitly noted in the OHRC's order.
The commission's order stated, "Notwithstanding the filing of the chargesheet, no victim compensation was yet paid to the next of kin of the deceased." After thorough consideration of the facts and circumstances, the OHRC concluded that the family is unequivocally entitled to compensation, given their financial distress and social standing.
Specific Recommendations and Implementation Timeline
In its directive, the OHRC has recommended that the state government provide the Rs 10 lakh compensation to Damburu Adhikari's next of kin within a strict timeframe of two months from the date of receiving the order. To ensure prompt action, the commission has instructed the home department to coordinate with the district legal services authority and other relevant authorities to facilitate the payment without any unnecessary delays.
The order further mandates, "A compliance report of the payment shall be submitted to this commission within the said period of two months." This requirement underscores the commission's commitment to monitoring the implementation and ensuring that the family receives the support they desperately need in a timely manner.
Broader Implications for Victim Rights and Social Justice
This case highlights the critical role of human rights commissions in advocating for victims and their families, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. By intervening where the judicial process had yet to provide financial redress, the OHRC's action sets a precedent for addressing the economic hardships faced by families of crime victims. It emphasizes the importance of victim compensation as a component of justice, beyond mere legal proceedings against perpetrators.
The recommendation also sheds light on the challenges faced by marginalized communities, such as the SC community, in accessing support systems. The OHRC's recognition of these factors in its decision-making process reinforces the need for inclusive policies that consider socio-economic vulnerabilities in the administration of justice.
