OHRC asks TPWODL to pay Rs 8 lakh ex-gratia to family of burn victim

The Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) has asked TP Western Odisha Distribution Limited (TPWODL) to pay a compensation of Rs 8 lakh to a 9-year-old in Kalahandi, who suffered severe burn injuries after coming in contact with a 33 KV power line.

The victim has been identified as Tigar Khamari from Bagad village.

As per a report published in the New Indian Express, OHRC found prima facie negligence on the part of TPWODL leading to the accident. 

In its order on August 13, 2024, Justice S Pujahari directed TPWODL to pay the compensation within one month. The order stated that Rs 4 lakh has already been paid to Tigar’s father, Sanjaya Khamari.

However, OHRC stated that TPWODL retains the right to take action against the house owner if the house was built in violation of TPWODL regulations. 

The commission further added that the recommended amount does not account for the full extent of the victim’s expenses or disabilities, allowing for further claims in the appropriate forum.

Notably, while playing on the roof of a house, Tigar came in contact with the high-voltage line on November 19, 2022. The house owner alleged that despite requests, the power line has not been relocated.