In a pioneering move, the Tripura Electricity Regulatory Commission (TERC) has emerged as a trailblazer among regulators in India by introducing a compensation system for electric accidents. The new regulations are designed to enhance public safety and ensure swift assistance to victims of electrocution, marking a significant milestone in the realm of electrical safety and accountability.
Under these groundbreaking regulations, any authority that fails to meet the prescribed standards of performance will be held accountable for paying compensation, as stipulated in the pertinent regulations. This initiative is poised to provide much-needed support to individuals and entities affected by electrical accidents, irrespective of whether negligence or wrongful acts were involved on the part of the licensee or generating companies.
TERC’s regulations unequivocally state, “Whether or not there has been any wrongful act, omission, rashness, neglect, or default on the part of the licensee and generating companies, as may be entitling the affected person to pursue civil action for damages or compensation or initiate criminal proceedings.”
However, it’s important to note that the licensee-generating companies will not be liable to provide compensation if the loss of human life is a result of suicide or homicide, or if injury to a person is caused by an attempted suicide or homicide, preserving a fair balance of responsibility.
According to the newly instituted regulations, the compensation payable for the loss of human life resulting from an electrical accident is set at Rs 7 lakh per person. In cases of more than 60% disability, a sum of Rs 3 lakh per person will be provided, and for disabilities ranging from 40% to 60%, Rs 70,000 per person will be paid as compensation for electric accidents. Additionally, Rs 20,000 per person will be provided for those requiring hospitalization for over a week, with Rs 10,000 per person allocated for hospitalization periods of less than a week.
TERC has taken its commitment to public safety even further by establishing compensation guidelines for the loss of animal life due to electrical accidents, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to ensuring equitable compensation in unfortunate incidents.
This landmark move by TERC is poised to set a precedent for other regulatory bodies in India and underscores the importance of prioritizing safety and support for victims of electrical accidents. The regulations not only seek to provide financial relief but also promote a culture of accountability and responsibility within the electrical industry.
