Chennai: The state labour department has directed a public sector insurance firm to pay a compensation of Rs 4.55 lakh to the family of a contract worker who died in a mishap in an industry in a construction company in Maraimalai Nagar. Petitioner R. Thulasidass of Kantharakottai village, Panruti, Cuddalore district, submitted that his son, T. Lakshmanan, 19, was working as an electrician in P.S.K. Engineering Group of Constructions Pvt Ltd, Maraimalai Nagar.
On November 23, 2008, he suffered grievous injuries while working in the unit. He was rushed to nearby hospital, where he died the same day. The company workers were covered by United India Insurance Company Ltd from October 19, 2008 and January 16, 2009. Counsel for the petitioner, V.S. Suresh, submitted that as labourer died while working in the company, the company and insurance firm liable to pay compensation. His family had lost its breadwinner. He sought a direction to the company and insurance agency to pay compensation.
P.S.K. Engineering submitted that Lakshmanan was working as a daily wage contract labourer. He ventured into the construction area without permission, leading to the accident. As per agreement, the company paid Rs1.25 lakh to Thulasidass on November 23, 2008. The insurance company was alerted about the mishap. Hence, the company was not liable to pay any compensation, it said.
Seeking dismissal of the petition, the insurance firm said the company had not obtained insurance coverage for electricians. On completion of trial, deputy labour commissioner-II, M. Shanthi, directed the insurance firm to pay a compensation of Rs 4.55 lakh to the father of Lakshmanan.
