Railways liable to compensate those who die getting on or off train: SC

The Supreme Court has said that it is the liability of the Railways to pay compensation n case of death or injury while boarding or de-boarding a train. The Railways cannot deny such claims by citing negligence of passengers the court also held.

The Bench said that such incidents would be an 'untoward incident' which would entitle the victim for compensation. As per Section 124A of the Railways Act, 1989, no compensation shall be payable by the railway administration if the passenger dies or suffers injury due to suicide or attempted suicide by him, self-inflicted injury, his own criminal act or any act committed by him in a state of intoxication or insanity.

The court however clarified that the Railways is liable to pay compensation to victims. Compensation is payable whether there has been a wrongful act, neglect or fault on party of the railway administration in case of an accident or untoward incident.