High Court Orders Aid for Victims, CMD’s Jail No Hindrance, Morbi Adoption Recommended; Order To Give Home for Young Woman in Mumbai

Today, a hearing was held in the Gujarat High Court regarding a suo moto petition on the Morbi Bridge accident. The court had sought data on the victims’ needs, prepared by the Morbi Collector based on the court’s orders, to be improved and presented again before the court. Discussion was held on this data, revealing that out of the 74 injured, 3 are now physically disabled by more than 40%, 4 mentally affected victims require proper care, and 10 widows and orphaned children need assistance. The court had issued directives to companies to comply and help the victims. It was emphasized that if the CMD is in jail, production should not be affected. The court suggested adopting orphaned children for those earning in Morbi. Furthermore, the court ordered providing a home in Mumbai for a young woman.

Court Advocates Trust Formation

The court mandated the company to establish a trust for the education expenses of the victims’ families, especially for an 18-year-old daughter’s future. The court also recognized other victims such as widows, the elderly, and the mentally affected, suggesting the formation of a trust for their support. It was emphasized that the company must engage in activities to fulfill the victims’ primary needs. Additionally, a widow’s inclusion in the scheme was noted, who is responsible for her two-year-old child.

Court Orders Special Measures for Company Officials

The court instructed company officials to undergo special monitoring for their actions in this matter. Jayasukh Patel, the main accused in the Morbi Bridge accident, was granted bail by the Supreme Court today. The court expressed concern that Jayasukh Patel’s decisions could still influence the company or his family members. The court ordered the company to cooperate with the Morbi Collector to gather all data regarding the victims for further analysis. The court also sought explanations from the company regarding their actions. Additionally, court-appointed mediators will assist both the company and the government.

Appointment of Public Welfare Officer by the Court

The company will file affidavits to be examined by the court, detailing information about the victims’ needs. The details should be comprehensive, including education for children, employment opportunities for widows, and monthly aid. The court suggested appointing a public welfare officer to support widows living in joint families. The court will also intervene to help other victims. It was suggested to adopt Morbi’s model for those earning, and the court ordered a review after three weeks.

Mental Health Status of Affected Victims

Kusumben: Moderate mental disorder, currently started household chores, further evaluation required after 1 year of caregiving, necessary to start household chores now.

Shabnamben: Depressed mental condition, recovering well, follow-up required after 6 months.

Kankuben: Moderate mental impact, good recovery, follow-up after 6 months.

Becharbhai: Work started but requires continued care.

Victims with Physical Disabilities

Mehul Raval: Aged over 40, hip fracture, underwent surgery, weakness in the body, unable to walk freely, needs assistance in finding suitable employment.

Aaftaab Rathod: Aged 21, minor physical disability, requires occasional support for work and mobility. The court suggested providing support resources. The incident has had a human impact. The company will adopt three physically disabled individuals for rehabilitation, and they will work for the company’s benefit.

Four women have accepted employment offered by the company, while six others can work for various reasons. Among them, one woman works as a conductor at GSRTC. Five women were affected by the loss of their sewing machine provided by the company and are now seeking financial assistance.

Families Struck by Tragedy

In the family of the deceased Pravinsinh, there are now three daughters behind him. All three daughters are of young age. Now, the deceased’s wife and the family take care of the daughters. Since the deceased’s wife is a homemaker, there is no income from her.

In the family of the deceased Husainbhai, there are also three grandchildren aged 14, 15, and 18, and their mother. All the grandchildren are daughters. The 18-year-old daughter works to support the family. The mother works as a laborer. The family’s annual income is only 50 thousand rupees.