THATI RANGA RAO Vs. L VARALAXMI

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The appellant challenges the order, dated 19-03-2001, passed by the Assistant Commissioner for Workmen's Compensation and Deputy Commissioner of Labour, (for short the Commissioner), Warangal, in W.C.No. 1 of 1993.

(2.) The first respondent raised a claim before the Commissioner alleging that her husband L.Bhaskar Rao was employed with the appellant in a rice mill and that in an accident which took place on 09-01-1903 in the mill, he died on the spot. It was alleged that the deceased was getting a salary of Rs.1,375/- per month and accordingly prayed for award of compensation under the provision of the Act.

(3.) The appellant denied his liability. He pleaded that the 2nd respondent is the owner of the rice mill and that he took the same on lease with effect from 15-03-1993. According to him, when the accident has taken place, he was not the lessee and therefore, the question of his being held responsible does not arise. Through the order under appeal, the Commissioner held that the appellant is liable to pay compensation of Rs.78,824/-. Half of the said amount, being Rs.39,412/- was levied as penalty and interest at the rate of 6% was awarded,