Court Condemns State's Policy Stance in Ex Gratia Dispute

The Allahabad High Court criticized the state's denial of ex gratia payment to a boy who lost his parents in a rail accident, labeling it a 'mockery of policy.' While the Centre verified the claim and released funds, the state refused payment due to 'lack of proof' of the deaths.

In a scathing order, the Allahabad High Court has criticized the Uttar Pradesh government's refusal to provide an ex gratia payment to a minor who lost his parents in a railway accident, describing the state's stance as a 'mockery of policy.'

The court noted that the central government had already confirmed the claim and disbursed its portion of the financial aid, yet the state withheld its contribution, citing insufficient evidence of the deaths. This contradiction between central and state actions was highlighted in the court's remarks.

The case, brought forth by a minor named Adarsh Pandey, underscored the alleged policy inconsistency. The Centre committed a Rs 5 lakh compensation for dependents, matched by the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister. However, court proceedings revealed the state refused payment, questioning the veracity of the parents' death claim.

(With inputs from agencies.)