In Brief
A widow and dependants of a deceased worker killed in a 2008 motor accident sought enhanced compensation. The deceased was earning 2,500 Qatar Riyals (₹30,000 monthly) in Doha. The High Court had awarded ₹21.53 lakhs after deducting 2/3rd of his salary as personal expenses. The Supreme Court held that a 40% deduction was more appropriate given the deceased's dependants in India and cost of living in Doha. The Court awarded ₹28 lakhs total compensation—exceeding the original ₹25 lakh claim—holding that the Motor Vehicles Act requires 'just compensation' based on evidence, not the claimed amount.
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.