Diary No: 14090/IN/2024
On August 16, 2024, a tragic accident unfolded at the 132 KV Sub-station in Raja ka Talab, Varanasi. Umesh Kumar, a young contractual electrician from Khjuri Rakhona, suffered severe injuries due to electrocution while repairing a transformer. After eight days of medical treatment, he succumbed to his injuries, leaving behind a grieving family and unanswered questions about workplace safety.
This case sheds light on the plight of contractual workers and the pressing need for robust safety measures in hazardous workplaces. Here's a detailed account of the developments in this case:
Incident and Investigation
The complaint, filed by Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, highlighted negligence leading to Umesh Kumar's death and demanded an impartial inquiry along with compensation for the victim's family. Following the complaint:
Investigation Report:
- The Deputy Director, Electrical Safety, U.P. Govt., Varanasi Region, conducted an inquiry under Section 161(2) of the Electricity Act, 2003.
- The report concluded that Umesh Kumar's electrocution occurred due to non-adherence to safety measures as per Rule 36 of the Indian Electricity Rules, 1956.
- It also held the supervisory staff and contractor jointly responsible for the accident.
Compensation:
- On the recommendation of the Electrical Safety Officer, the contractor paid ₹10 lakh to Umesh Kumar’s mother on November 28, 2024, as compensation.
Commission's Response
After reviewing the action taken report and inquiry findings, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) concluded that:
- The accident was caused by the victim’s failure to follow safety protocols.
- While the contractor and supervisory staff bore some responsibility, the contractor had fulfilled the recommendation by compensating the victim's family.
- No further intervention by the Commission was deemed necessary, and the case was closed on January 16, 2025.
Critical Reflections
This case raises several important questions:
- Workplace Safety: Why was Umesh Kumar, a contractual worker, not adequately trained or supervised to ensure safety?
- Accountability: While the compensation addresses immediate financial needs, what steps are being taken to prevent similar incidents?
- Systemic Issues: The reliance on contractual labor often leads to compromised safety standards and lack of accountability in hazardous industries.
Moving Forward
Umesh Kumar's death is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by contractual workers. Beyond compensation, systemic changes are necessary:
- Strengthening Safety Protocols: Employers must ensure strict adherence to safety rules and provide training to all workers.
- Regular Audits: Independent safety audits should be conducted to ensure compliance at high-risk workplaces.
- Legal Reforms: Strengthening accountability mechanisms for contractors and employers can deter negligence.
As a society, we must strive for workplaces where every worker—regardless of their employment status—can perform their duties without fear of harm. Umesh Kumar's case is not just a personal tragedy; it is a call to action for ensuring justice and dignity for all workers.
Links for detail: https://www.scribd.com/document/816752653/Seeking-Justice-for-Umesh-Kumar-A-Case-of-Tragic-Electrocution
Seeking Justice for Umesh Kumar: A Case of Tragic Electrocution by pvchr.india9214 on Scribd
Seeking Justice for Umesh Kumar: A Case of Tragic Electrocution: Complain by pvchr.india9214 on Scribd
No comments:
Post a Comment