BUDHNI DEVI Vs. CENTRAL COALFIELDS LIMITED

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Heard learned counsel for the petitioner and the Central Coalfields Limited.

(2.) Husband of the petitioner died on 12.08.1999 in harness while working as Short Fire Khalasi, Upper Nakari-3, Bhurkunda Colliery under the Respondent C.C.L. Death certificate issued by the Ramakrishna Mission, Sanatorium, Ranchi in support thereof is enclosed as Annexure-2. She informed the respondent no.4 about the death vide Annexure-3 dated 13.03.2000. Claim for monetary compensation was made through application dated 05.12.2003 (Annexure-4).

(3.) Learned counsel for the petitioner submits that being an illiterate lady petitioner could not pursue the cause of action earlier though some representations have been filed belatedly thereafter. As per the service excerpts of the employee, petitioner was aged about 42 years at the time of death of her husband. She would be entitled for monetary compensation in terms of Clause 9.5.0 of NCWA till the age of 60 years. Therefore, she is compelled to approach this Court.