Compensation delay leaves fireworks factory blast victims in the lurch in T.N.

Muthukutti, a resident of Nadusurangkutti in Virudhunagar district, was among the workers who survived the deadly blast at Sree Mariyammal Fireworks factory at Achankulam village, which claimed 27 lives four years ago on February 12, 2021. “Those who died on the spot got a compensation of ₹3 lakh immediately, but those who were injured were paid only ₹1 lakh, and after their death, the Collector’s office gave another ₹1 lakh. “I was told that I would receive a compensation of ₹15 lakh but that is yet to come,” he said, adding that the company’s cheque bounced in his case too. The National Green Tribunal that took up the case suo motu in 2021 awarded ₹20 lakh per family for the deceased victims and ₹15 lakh to “persons who have burns in excess of 50%, ₹10 lakh for persons who have burns from 25% to 50%, and ₹5 lakh for persons who have injuries between 5% and 25%.” The Tribunal further directed that the compensation must be paid within the time set by it and ordered a further liability of annual interest at 12% for default of payment. “The government is paying a compensation of ₹10 lakh for those who died in the hooch tragedy, but this is about people whose family members have died while working.