KUMUD KUMAR Vs. PARO DEVI

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This appeal by the owner of the vehicle is directed against the judgment and award dated 9.1.2008 passed by Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Tribunal, Lohardaga in Compensation Case No. 137 of 2000 whereby he has directed the appellant to pay a compensation amount of Rs. 1,92,000/- to the claimants-respondents on account of death of the deceased Rajendra Mahto.

(2.) The facts of the case lie in a narrow compass:

(3.) Learned Counsel for the appellant/owner of the vehicle assailed the impugned Judgment mainly on the ground that the deceased was not a gratuitous passenger rather he was travelling in the offending vehicle with his goods. According to the learned Counsel, as the deceased was travelling as owner of the goods and not as gratuitous passenger, the Insurance Company is only liable to satisfy the award.