UNION OF INDIA Vs. DURGA DASS AND ORS.

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This order will dispose of FAO Nos.2081, 2780, 2781, 2923, 2924, 3079 and 3088 of 1999 as identical questions of law and fact are involved for adjudication

(2.) The issues that fall for consideration are:- 1. Whether the grand-parents can claim compensation with regard to death of their grand-children (minor)? 2. Whether parents in law are entitle to compensation with regard to death of their daughter in law?

(3.) Chapter XIII of the Railways Act, 1989 (in short 'the Act') deals with liability of railway administration for death and injury to passengers due to accidents. Sec. 123 under Chapter XIII defines 'dependant' and a relevant extract from Sec. 123(b) of the Act, reads as follows:-