In a landmark judgment that brings some measure of justice to a grieving family, the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal has ordered a compensation of ₹36 lakh to the relatives of the young woman who lost her life in the horrific Kanjhawala hit-and-run case that sent shockwaves across the national capital.
A Tragic Incident That Shook the Nation
The case dates back to the early hours of January 1, 2023, when a 20-year-old woman was dragged for several kilometers under a car in the Kanjhawala area of Delhi. The gruesome incident, involving multiple accused in a speeding vehicle, sparked nationwide outrage and raised serious questions about road safety and women's security in the city.
Court Delivers Long-Awaited Justice
After months of legal proceedings and investigation, the tribunal presided over by Judge Sandeep Yadav pronounced the compensation amount, acknowledging the immense suffering endured by the victim's family. The ruling considers the young woman's potential future earnings and the mental agony caused to her relatives.
Compensation Breakdown and Legal Proceedings
The ₹36 lakh compensation package includes various components that account for the financial and emotional loss suffered by the family. Legal experts note that such rulings set important precedents for similar hit-and-run cases across the country.
The tribunal's decision comes as the criminal case against the accused continues to proceed through the judicial system. The compensation ruling operates independently of the ongoing criminal trial, providing the family with immediate financial support.
Broader Implications for Road Safety
This case has become a catalyst for much-needed discussions about road safety reforms in India. The sheer brutality of the incident prompted authorities to re-examine existing traffic laws and enforcement mechanisms.
Safety advocates hope that this ruling will send a strong message about accountability and the legal consequences of hit-and-run incidents, potentially deterring such offenses in the future.
The victim's family, while still mourning their irreplaceable loss, has expressed some relief at the tribunal's recognition of their suffering through this compensation award.