Justice for Saynokta Devi: Supreme Court Intervenes in Two-Decade Battle

Saynokta Devi, a widow who lost her husband in a train accident in 2002, fought a 20-year legal battle for compensation. The Supreme Court finally overturned previous rulings against her claim, directing Railways to compensate her. The court took further steps to ensure she receives the payment despite logistical challenges.

The Supreme Court has dramatically intervened on behalf of Saynokta Devi, a widow who spent over two decades fighting for compensation after her husband died in a 2002 train accident. Despite setbacks at lower legal levels, the apex court has now directed the Railways to release Rs 4 lakh to Devi.

Originally, both the Railway Claims Tribunal and the Patna High Court had denied her claims, citing reasons that the Supreme Court deemed 'completely absurd' and 'contrary to the undisputed facts on record'. The deceased, Vijay Singh, had been ticketed for travel yet fell victim to an accident largely due to over-crowding on the train.

Efforts are now underway to ensure Devi, who has relocated, receives her compensation. The Railways have issued public notices and collaborated with local authorities to trace her. After a village misidentification delayed communication, she has since been located, paving the way for her to receive her rightful compensation.

(With inputs from agencies.)