Electrocution victims get Rs.33 lakh after NHRC intervention

Following the intervention of the NHRC, the Uttar Pradesh government has paid Rs.33.40 lakh to people who were electrocuted when their bus came in contact with an unguarded low-lying high-tension line in the state's Fatehpur district.

As per the National Human Rights Commission, the state government was earlier reluctant to pay compensation to the victims, saying the line was drawn in accordance with the prescribed standards.

However, not satisfied with this response, the NHRC called for an inquiry by the chief electrical inspector.

"Subsequently, the director of electrical security, government of Uttar Pradesh, in his inquiry report, revealed that the height of the overhead transmission line was less than the standard height prescribed under the rules, i.e, 5.8 metres," said a statement from the NHRC.

The incident took place when the bus came in contact with the high-tension line while parking at the Amauli Road bus stand in Jahanabad area of Fatehpur on October 23, 2012.

The NHRC said the compensation included a total of Rs.28 lakh to the next of kin of 14 deceased and Rs.40,000 to those who suffered injuries.