Did CESC Just Announce Rs 5 Lakh Compensation for Electrocution Victims?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, CESC Limited has announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for families of electrocution victims in West Bengal. This decision comes amid heightened scrutiny and demands from authorities. Will this be enough to address the tragedy and the community’s concerns?
Key Takeaways
- CESC Limited has announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for electrocution victims' families.
- A total of 10 deaths were reported in West Bengal due to electrocution.
- Heavy rainfall contributed to the hazardous conditions leading to the incidents.
- Criticism from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has intensified scrutiny on CESC.
- CESC's lack of job offers for victims' families raises further concerns.
Kolkata, Sep 25 (NationPress) In response to increasing pressure, Sanjiv Goenka-led CESC Limited, a private entity involved in power generation and distribution, announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for the families affected by electrocution incidents in various regions of West Bengal that fall under the company's service area.
The tragic incidents resulted in the loss of 10 lives in West Bengal, with eight fatalities occurring in Kolkata. The victims suffered electrocution after they came into contact with exposed electric wires that were submerged in waterlogged streets due to heavy rainfall earlier this week.
CESC holds a dominant position in the power distribution sector within Kolkata and the surrounding Howrah district.
On Thursday afternoon, CESC's Executive Director, Avijit Ghosh, made the announcement regarding the compensation.
"CESC is profoundly saddened by the loss of life due to this natural disaster in our city. On humanitarian grounds, we have decided to extend Rs 5 lakh to each bereaved family," Ghosh stated.
This compensation announcement from CESC came shortly after a division bench of the Calcutta High Court requested a report from CESC Limited concerning the multiple electrocution incidents in and around Kolkata that occurred on Tuesday.
Earlier, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized CESC for the electrocution incidents and demanded that the company compensate the families of each victim with Rs 5 lakh, in addition to offering employment to one family member of each victim.
The Chief Minister had previously announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of each electrocution victim.
While the compensation has been announced, there has yet to be any communication from CESC regarding job placements, as was demanded.
Point of View
This incident highlights the critical need for enhanced safety protocols in power distribution, particularly in areas prone to natural calamities. The government's response, coupled with public expectations, underscores the urgency for accountability from service providers like CESC. It also prompts a broader discussion on infrastructure resilience in the face of climate challenges.
NationPress
25/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the compensation amount announced by CESC?
CESC Limited has announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for each victim's family affected by electrocution.
How many electrocution deaths occurred in West Bengal?
There were a total of 10 electrocution deaths reported in West Bengal, including eight in Kolkata.
What did Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee demand from CESC?
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee demanded that CESC pay Rs 5 lakh to each victim's family and provide job opportunities for one family member of each victim.
What caused the electrocution incidents in Kolkata?
The electrocution incidents occurred when victims came into contact with exposed electric wires submerged in waterlogged streets after heavy rainfall.
What is CESC's role in Kolkata's power distribution?
CESC Limited holds a monopoly in power distribution in Kolkata and the neighboring Howrah district.
