UNION OF INDIA Vs. RITA PANT

JUDGEMENT

(1.) THE appellants have challenged the award of learned Tribunal whereby compensation of Rs. 10,35,000 has been awarded to the appellants. THE appellants are seeking reduction of the award amount. THE respondents have filed cross-objections to seek the enhancement of the award amount.

(2.) THE accident dated 9.9.1998 resulted in the death of Ashok Pant. THE deceased along with his wife was travelling in a TSR on Janpath, New Delhi when the Air Force Canter bearing No. 95-D 100374P hit the TSR due to which the TSR overturned resulting in serious head injuries to the deceased. THE deceased was taken to RML Hospital and, thereafter, shifted to AIIMS where the deceased succumbed to the injuries on 17.9.1998. THE deceased's wife had also suffered injuries in the said accident.

(3.) DURING his lifetime, the deceased had won many awards and medals. He had the unique distinction for cooking personally for the Hon'ble Giani Zail Singh, President of India, Smt. Indira Gandhi, Mr. Rajiv Gandhi, King Carlos and Queen Sophia of Spain, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip of UK, Mr. Henry Kissinger of USA and other VIPs and dignitaries.