Sangeeta Sethi Lrs Of Deceased Srishthi … vs Prabhat Suri (Iffco Tokio General Insu) on 7 April, 2026

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    Delhi District Court

    Sangeeta Sethi Lrs Of Deceased Srishthi … vs Prabhat Suri (Iffco Tokio General Insu) on 7 April, 2026

         IN THE TRIBUNAL OF PRESIDING OFFICER MACT-02:
          CENTRAL DISTRICT: TIS HAZARI COURTS: DELHI.
          PRESIDED OVER BY Ms. POOJA AGGARWAL, DHJS
    
    
    MACT No. 219/24
    UID / CNRNo. DLCT01-004548-2024
    
    In Respect of
    FIR No.: 426/2023
    U/s: 279/337/338 IPC
    PS : Sector-58, Noida, UP.
    
    
    
    
    1.           Smt. Sangeeta Sethi (Mother)
                 W/o Late Sh. Sanjay Kumar Sethi
    
    2.           Ms. Ishita Sethi (Sister)
                 D/o Late Sh. Sanjay Kumar Sethi
    
                 Both R/o H.No. A-544/4 Block-A,
                 Shastri Nagar, Ashok Vihar, Delhi-110052.
                 (Through Ld. Counsel Sh. H.S.Yadav)
                                                                                       .....Petitioners
    
                                                          Versus
    
    1.           Sh. Prabhat Suri (Driver)
                 S/o Sh. Arun Kumar Suri @ Arun Suri
                 R/o H. No. 1/37 Roop Nagar,
                 Delhi-110007.
                 (Through Ld. Counsel Sh. Sudhir Saneja)
    
    2.           Smt. Bina Suri (Owner)
                 W/o Sh. Arun Kumar Suri
                 R/o H. No. 1/37 Roop Nagar,
                 Delhi-110007.
                 (Through Ld. Counsel Sh. Sudhir Saneja)
    
    
                                                                             Digitally signed
    MACT No. 219/24                                                          by POOJA
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP            POOJA    AGGARWAL            Page No. 1 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors.                    AGGARWAL Date:
                                                                             2026.04.07
    DOD: 07.04.2026                                                          16:35:48 +0530
      3.           IFFCO TOKIO General Insurance Company Ltd.
                  (Insurer)
                  Having Regd. Office at: 2nd Floor, FAI Building,
                  10 Saheed Jeet Singh Marg, Qutub Institution Area,
                  New Delhi-110067.
                  (Through Ld. Counsel Sh. Akshay Kumar)
                                                           .....Respondents
    
    
     Date of filing of claim petition                               : 27.03.2024
     Judgment reserved on                                           : 24.03.2026
     Date of Award                                                  : 07.04.2026
    
    
                                                   AWARD/JUDGMENT
    
    1. The present petition has been filed by the Petitioners under
       Section 166 and 140 of Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (hereinafter
       referred to as "MV Act") seeking compensation in respect of the
       death of Ms. Srishti Sethi D/o Late Sh. Sanjay Kumar Sethi
       (hereinafter referred to as "deceased") due to an accident, which
       took place on 30.10.2023 at Round About (Gol Chakkar),
       Sector-62, Noida, UP, by the vehicle bearing registration no.
       DL-1CAG-9798 (hereinafter referred to as "offending vehicle"),
       driven by the Respondent No.1, owned by the Respondent No.2
       and insured with the Respondent No.3/ Insurance Company.
    
    
                                                   Facts as per the Petition

    2. In brief, the Petitioners, being the mother and sister of the
    deceased, have asserted that on 30.10.2023, at about 07.30 p.m.,
    the deceased Srishti Seth was returning home from her office
    with her colleague namely Aditya Sharma, on a motorcycle
    bearing registration no. DL-14SS-2006, and when they reached
    near Gole Chakkar, Sector-62, Noida, a vehicle bearing
    Digitally signed
    by POOJA
    AGGARWAL
    MACT No. 219/24 POOJA
    AGGARWAL Date:

    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP 2026.04.07 Page No. 2 of 46
    16:35:59
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. +0530
    DOD: 07.04.2026
    registration no. DL-1CAG-9798 (hereinafter referred to as
    “offending vehicle”) suddenly came from behind in a very high
    speed, which was being driving in a rash and negligent manner.
    It has been further stated that the offending vehicle hit two other
    vehicles i.e Splendor motorcycle bearing registration no.
    UP-16CF-2993 and DL-3SDP-8091 and thereafter it hit the
    motorcycle on which the deceased was sitting, and due to the
    powerful impact, the deceased and her colleague both fell down
    on the road, resulting in minor injuries to the colleague but
    grievous injuries to Srishti.

    3. It has also been stated that after the accident, Srishti was
    admitted in nearby hospital i.e. Max Hospital, Vaishali,
    Ghaziabad vide her MLR No. 6215 on 30.10.2023 from where
    she was discharged on 11.09.2023. It has been further stated that
    Srishti was again admitted in the said Hospital on 18.11.2023
    and was discharged on 22.11.2023 and she was again admitted
    on 16.12.2023 and discharged on 23.12.2023. It has also been
    stated that thereafter Srishti was admitted in Max Hospital,
    Shalimar Bagh, New Delhi on 01.01.2024, where she expired on
    02.01.2024 during the course of treatment and her postmortem
    was conducted on 04.01.2024 at Jag Jeevan Ram Hospital,
    Jahangir Puri Delhi. It has been further stated that the accident
    was caused due to the rash and negligent driving on the part of
    the driver of the offending vehicle, resulting in the death of the
    deceased.

    SPONSORED

    4. It has also been stated that the deceased was aged about 27 years
    and she was working as Associate Project Manager with Trio
    Digitally signed by
    MACT No. 219/24 POOJA
    POOJA
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP AGGARWAL
    AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07 Page No. 3 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. 16:36:05 +0530

    DOD: 07.04.2026
    Tree Technology Pvt Ltd, Noida, UP earning about ₹63,317/-
    per month. It has been further stated that an FIR No. 426/23, u/s
    279/337/338 IPC, PS Noida Sector-58, Uttar Pradesh, was
    registered in respect of the accident and the Petitioners have
    sought Rs.2,00,00,000/- as compensation along with 18%
    interest per annum from the date of petition till realization,
    asserting that they had incurred approximate expense of
    ₹30,00,000/- on treatment and ₹1,00,000/- on last rites.

    Facts as per Written Statement/Reply of
    Respondents No. 1 and 2

    5. In their joint written statement/reply, the Respondents No. 1 and
    2 asserted that the vehicle bearing registration no.
    DL-1CAG-9798 was being driven very diligently on 30.10.2023
    and when it had crossed the Gol Chakkar, near Sector-62,
    Noida, some other vehicle hit the said vehicle from behind and
    due to the heavy jerk, the vehicle of the Respondents lost
    balance, one of the tyres of their vehicle burst, the vehicle
    turned turtle and the vehicle bearing No. DL-14-SS-2006 was
    hit. It has also been asserted that the Respondent No. 1 had lost
    consciousness for a few minutes and when he regained
    consciousness, he saw one lady entangled in the motorcycle but
    she was not even wearing a helmet. They also asserted that the
    discharge summaries of the deceased dated 11.11.2023,
    22.11.2023 and 30.12.2023 indicated that the patient had been
    stable on the date of the discharge and therefore, the cause of
    death of Ms. Srishti was not the accident. It has not been
    disputed that at the time of accident, the offending vehicle was
    being driven by the Respondent No.1, owned by the Respondent
    No.2 and insured with Respondent No.3/ Insurance Company.

    MACT No. 219/24

    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP POOJA
    Digitally signed by
    POOJA AGGARWAL Page No. 4 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07
    16:36:10 +0530
    DOD: 07.04.2026
    Facts as per the written statement of Respondent No. 3/
    Insurance Company.

    6. In its written statement, the Respondent No. 3/ Insurance
    Company raised various preliminary objections including as to
    the driver of the vehicle bearing registration no.
    DL-1CAG-9798 not holding a valid and effective driving
    license to drive the said vehicle. It has also been stated that even
    Aman Sharma i.e. the driver of the vehicle bearing registration
    no. DL-14SS-2006 not holding a valid and effective driving
    license and the accident had been caused due to his rash and
    negligent driving. The Respondent No.3/ Insurance Company
    did not dispute that the vehicle bearing registration no.
    DL-1CAG-9798 was insured with them from 23.01.2023 till
    22.01.2024 in the name of the Respondent No.2.

    Issues

    7. From the pleadings on record, the following issues were framed
    by the Ld. Predecessor vide order dated 28.03.2025:-

    1.Whether the deceased Srishti Sethi suffered fatal
    injuries in an accident that took place on 30.10.2023 at
    about 07.30 PM involving vehicle bearing registration
    No. DL-1CAG-9798 driven by the Respondent No. 1
    rashly and negligently, owned by the Respondent No. 2
    and insured with the respondent no. 3? OPP.

    2. Whether the petitioners are entitled for
    compensation? If so, to what amount and from whom?

    3.Relief.

    Evidence of the Petitioners

    8. The Petitioners examined six witnesses.

    Digitally signed
    by POOJA

     MACT No. 219/24                                                       POOJA    AGGARWAL
     In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP                   AGGARWAL Date:               Page No. 5 of 46
                                                                                     2026.04.07
     Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors.                                     16:36:17 +0530
     DOD: 07.04.2026
    

    9. PW-1 Smt. Sangeeta Sethi, i.e. Petitioner No.1 being the mother
    of the deceased, tendered her evidence by way of affidavit i.e.
    Ex. PW-1/A wherein she testified on similar lines as the claim
    petition. She also relied upon the following documents :-

    S.No. Description of Documents Exhibit/Mark

    1. Copy of her own Aadhaar Card Ex. PW-1/1

    2. Copy of Aadhaar Card of the Ex.PW-1/2
    deceased

    3. Copy of Aadhaar Card of Ishita Ex. PW-1/3
    Sethi

    4. Copy of death certificate of the Ex.PW-1/4
    deceased (Colly)

    5. Copy of MLC of the deceased Ex.PW-1/5
    of Max Hospital

    6. Copy of service ID Care, Ex. PW-1/6
    appointment letter and salary (Colly)

    7. Copy of educational Ex. PW-1/7
    qualification documents of the (Colly)
    deceased

    8. Original discharge summary, Ex. PW-1/8
    death summary alongwith all (Colly)
    medical bills

    9. Copy of certified charge-sheet Ex. PW-1/9
    (Colly)

    10. Copy of driving license of Mark-A
    Respondent No.1

    11. Copy of RC of offending Mark-B
    vehicle

    12. Copy of insurance policy of Mark-C
    offending vehicle

    10. She was duly cross-examined by the Ld. Counsels for the
    Respondents.

    Digitally signed

     MACT No. 219/24                                                          by POOJA
     In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP           POOJA      AGGARWAL
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                                                                   AGGARWAL   Date:
     Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors.                              2026.04.07
                                                                              16:36:23 +0530
     DOD: 07.04.2026
    

    11.PW-2 Sh. Aditya Sharma, being an eye witness of the accident
    tendered his evidence by way of affidavit Ex. PW-2/A, wherein
    he also testified on similar lines as the petition in respect of the
    factum and manner of accident and also in respect of the
    deceased having suffered injuries in the accident, as well as her
    subsequent demise. He also relied upon following documents:-

    S.No. Description of Documents Exhibit/Mark
    1 Copy of his Aadhaar Card Ex. PW-2/1
    2 Copy of MLC Ex.PW-2/2

    12. He was duly cross-examined by Ld. Counsels for Respondents.

    13. PW-3 Sh. Manish Gupta, Medical Record Incharge, being a
    summoned witness, proved the complete medical bills,
    treatment record, discharge summary of patient Shristi Sethi of
    Max Hospital, Vaishali, Ghaziabad vide Ex.PW-3/1 (Colly). He
    was duly cross-examined by the Ld. Counsels for Respondents.

    14. PW-4 Sh. Chandan Kumar Mishra, Admin and Accounts
    Manager from Triotree Technologies Pvt. Ltd. Noida, being
    another summoned witness proved the appointment letter and
    salary slip of Shristi Sethi of Triotree Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
    Noida vide Ex.PW-4/1 (Colly). He was duly cross-examined by
    the Ld. Counsels for Respondents.

    15. PW-5 Sh. Pramod Arya, Medical Record Technician from Max
    Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, Delhi being yet another summoned
    witness, proved the death summary and medical bills of
    deceased Srishti Sethi vide Ex.PW-5/1 (Colly). He was duly
    Digitally signed
    MACT No. 219/24 POOJA by POOJA
    AGGARWAL
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07
    Page No. 7 of 46
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    cross-examined by the Ld. Counsels for Respondents.

    16. PW-6 SI Jaydeep Malik, being the Investigating Officer was
    examined in chief on 02.06.2025, whereafter, his cross
    examination was deferred for want of time as per the report of
    the LC, but thereafter, he did not appear on 09.06.2025 and
    07.07.2025, whereafter on 25.07.2025, the Ld. Counsel for
    Petitioners closed PE.

    Evidence of the Respondents

    17. The Respondents No. 1 and 2 examined three witnesses.

    18. RW1 Prabhat Suri, being the driver of the offending vehicle and
    Respondent No.1 himself, tendered his evidence by way of
    affidavit i.e. Ex. RW1/A reiterating the contents of his written
    statement/ reply. He further testified that even the mechanical
    inspection of his vehicle showed that it was hit by some other
    heavy vehicle from behind, due to which his car was imbalanced
    and turned turtle. He further testified that the amount claimed as
    compensation was exaggerated and he had no liability to pay the
    same. He further testified that in the discharge summary dated
    02.01.2024, the cause of death of the victim/Srishti Sethi was
    mentioned as Brady Cardia FB/Cardiac Arrest and her death was
    not associated with the accident. He was duly cross-examined
    by Ld. Counsel for Petitioners and was not cross examined on
    behalf of the Respondent No. 3/ Insurance Company despite
    opportunity.

    19. R1W2 Dr. Preeti, Associate Consultant, MAX Hospital,
    MACT No. 219/24
    Digitally signed by
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP POOJA POOJA AGGARWAL Page No. 8 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07
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    DOD: 07.04.2026
    Shalimar Bagh, Delhi being a summoned witness proved the
    death summary of patient namely Srishti Sethi vide Ex.R1W2/1
    (Colly). She also proved the copy of cardiology consult echo
    report of patient namely Srishti Sethi vide Ex.R1W2/2(Colly).
    She further testified that as per the death summary, the patient
    Srishti Sethi was brought to the Hospital with the complaint of
    altered mental status with hypotension, global LV Hypokinesis
    (LVEF 20%) with hypothyroid with the history of Entero-
    Cuntaneous Fistula with ileal perforation with faecal peritonitis,
    and went on to testify that this condition led to the death of the
    patient namely Srishti Sethi due to multiple organs failure with
    septic shock. She was duly cross-examined by the Ld. Counsel
    for Petitioners wherein she testified that the road traffic accident
    was not the direct cause of death of the deceased, but it may
    have been indirect cause as she had undergone multiple
    surgeries which leads to post operative complications like septic
    shock.

    20. R1W3 HC MT Upender Kumar, being another summoned
    witness proved the mechanical inspection reports of vehicles
    bearing registration no. DL-1CAG-9798, DL-3SDP-8019,
    DL-14SS-2006 and UP-16CF-2993 vide Ex.R1W3/1 (Colly)
    and inter alia testified that as per the mechanical inspection
    report of the vehicle bearing registration No. DL-1CAG-9798,
    the back side diggy glass was damaged and the back side
    bumper was also damaged, but he could not say whether the
    damages were fresh or old. He was duly cross-examined by the
    Ld. Counsel for Petitioners as well as by Ld. Counsel for
    Respondent No.3/ Insurance Company.

    Digitally signed

     MACT No. 219/24                                                  by POOJA
                                                           POOJA      AGGARWAL
    

    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP AGGARWAL Date:

    Page No. 9 of 46

    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. 2026.04.07
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    DOD: 07.04.2026

    21. The Respondent No. 3/ Insurance Company did not examine
    any witness.

    Final Arguments

    22. Final arguments were then advanced on behalf of the
    Petitioners as well as the Respondents by their respective
    counsels, which have been carefully considered along with the
    evidence on record and after careful consideration of the same,
    the issue wise findings are as under:

    Issue No.1: Whether the deceased Sh. Srishti Sethi suffered
    fatal injuries in an accident that took place on 30.10.2023
    at about 07.30 PM involving vehicle bearing registration
    No. DL-1CAG-9798 driven by the Respondent No. 1
    rashly and negligently, owned by the Respondent No. 2 and
    insured with the respondent no. 3? OPP.

    23. The onus to prove this issue was upon the Petitioners. It is a
    settled proposition of law that in this Tribunal strict proof of an
    accident having been caused in a particular manner may not be
    possible to be done by the Petitioners, and they are to establish
    their case on the touchstone of preponderance of probability and
    the standard of proof beyond reasonable doubt cannot be
    applied. Strength for this interpretation is drawn from the
    judgment of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in Bimla Devi and
    others Vs. Himachal Road Transport Corporation and others
    ,
    (2009) 13 SC 530, Mangla Ram Vs. Oriental Insurance Co. Ltd.
    & Ors.
    , (2018) 5 SCC 656, Geeta Dubey Vs United India
    Insurance Company Ltd. & Ors, 2024 SCC Online SC 3779,
    Sajeena Ikhbal and Others Vs Mini Babu George and Others
    ,
    2024 SCC OnLine SC 2883.

                                                                                        Digitally signed
                                                                                        by POOJA
                                                                                      AGGARWAL
                                                                             POOJA
     MACT No. 219/24                                                         AGGARWAL Date:
                                                                                      2026.04.07
     In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP                                16:36:49           Page No. 10 of 46
     Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors.                                        +0530
    
     DOD: 07.04.2026
    

    24. In Prabhavathi v. Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corpn.,
    2025 SCC OnLine SC 455, the Hon’ble Supreme Court has
    again reiterated that:

    “13. It is the settled law that under the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988 it is
    established that in compensation cases, the strict rules of evidence
    used in criminal trials do not apply. Instead, the standard of proof is
    based on the preponderance of probability. This Court in Sunita v.
    Rajasthan SRTC1
    observed that:

    “22. It is thus well settled that in motor accident claim cases,
    once the foundational fact, namely, the actual occurrence of
    the accident, has been established, then the Tribunal’s role
    would be to calculate the quantum of just compensation if
    the accident had taken place by reason of negligence of the
    driver of a motor vehicle and, while doing so, the Tribunal
    would not be strictly bound by the pleadings of the parties.
    Notably, while deciding cases arising out of motor vehicle
    accidents, the standard of proof to be borne in mind must be
    of preponderance of probability and not the strict standard of
    proof beyond all reasonable doubt which is followed in
    criminal cases.”

    The exposition came to be reiterated in Rajwati alias Rajjo v. United
    India Insurance Company Ltd.2
    , wherein it was observed that:

    “20. It is well settled that Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 is a
    beneficial piece of legislation and as such, while dealing
    with compensation cases, once the actual occurrence of the
    accident has been established, the Tribunal’s role would be to
    award just and fair compensation. As held by this Court in
    Sunita (Supra) and Kusum Lata(Supra), strict rules of
    evidence as applicable in a criminal trial, are not applicable
    in motor accident compensation cases, i.e., to say, “the
    standard of proof to be borne in mind must be of
    preponderance of probability and not the strict standard of
    proof beyond all reasonable doubt which is followed in
    criminal cases”.

    (Emphasis supplied)

    25. In the present case, as per the testimony of PW-2 Aditya
    Sharma, the accident had occurred on 30.10.2023 at about 7.30
    P.M., when he was driving his motorcycle bearing registration
    no. DL-14SS-2006, on which the deceased Srishti was a pillion
    rider. In respect of the manner of the accident, he has
    categorically and unequivocally testified that the accident had
    1(2020) 13 SCC 486
    2 2022 SCC OnLine SC 1699 Digitally signed
    MACT No. 219/24 POOJA
    by POOJA
    AGGARWAL
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP AGGARWAL Date:

    2026.04.07 Page No. 11 of 46

    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. 16:36:54
    +0530
    DOD: 07.04.2026
    taken place when they had reached near the Gole Chakkar of
    Sector-62, Noida, as vehicle bearing registration no.
    DL-1CAG-9798 (Maruti Suzuki Brezza) had come from behind,
    and first hit two other motorcycles bearing registration no.
    UP-16CF-2993 & DL-3SDP-8019, and thereafter hit his
    motorcycle on which he was travelling with his colleague/
    deceased Srishti. He has also categorically testified that the
    offending vehicle was being driven at a very high speed and in
    rash and negligent manner, and that due to the powerful impact,
    he and his colleague (deceased) had both fallen on the road
    along with the motorcycle, sustaining grievous injuries and even
    the mechanical inspection report reflects extensive damage to
    his vehicle including on the rear side. His testimony could not
    be discredited and nothing material could be elicited in his
    cross-examination by the Respondents, nor any reason has been
    brought on record to disbelieve the mechanical inspection report
    of the vehicle of the victim.

    26. On the other hand, in his evidence affidavit i.e. Ex RW1/A, the
    Respondent No. 1 has testified to the effect that some other
    vehicle had hit his vehicle from behind due to which he lost
    balance, one of the tyres of his vehicles burst, his vehicle turned
    turtle and the motorcycle bearing registration No.
    DL-14SS-2006, which was being driven by its driver in a rash
    and negligent manner, rammed into his car and fell down.

    27. It is thus evident, that in the testimony of both PW2 Aditya
    Sharma as well as Respondent no.1, the factum of the accident
    having taken place on 30.10.2023 between vehicle bearing
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    registration No. DL-1CAG-9798 and the motorcycle bearing
    registration No. DL-14SS-2006, is not disputed, which fact thus
    stands proved.

    28. In respect of the manner of accident, it is noted that despite not
    being able to discredit the testimony of PW2 Aditya Sharma as
    to the accident having been caused by rash and negligent driving
    of the Respondent No.1, the Respondent No. 1 has taken the
    defence of him driving the vehicle diligently and he has
    attributed the accident to a burst tyre due to his vehicle having
    been hit from behind by another vehicle.

    29. However, except self serving oral testimony, the Respondent
    No.1 did not lead any evidence to prove the involvement of any
    other vehicle in the accident which had hit his vehicle from
    behind, nor the existence of any such vehicle is mentioned even
    in the chargesheet as filed by the investigating agency. It is also
    noted that in his reply/written statement, and even in his
    evidence, the Respondent No.1 did not even mention the make,
    model or registration number of the other vehicle which had
    purportedly hit his car from behind at the time of the accident,
    nor furnished any explanation for such omission. The
    Respondents did not even examine any expert to prove that the
    burst tyre was the result of the offending vehicle having been hit
    from behind, and not due to any other reason, including but not
    limited to vehicle being driven in a high speed or the tyres not
    being roadworthy at the time of the accident, and hence his self
    serving oral testimony is not worthy of credence.

    Digitally signed

      MACT No. 219/24                                                 by POOJA
      In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP   POOJA    AGGARWAL
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      DOD: 07.04.2026
    

    30. Further, it is duly noted that Respondent No. 1 has admitted in
    his cross-examination that FIR No. 0426/2023, PS Noida
    Sector-58, U.P was registered against him. As per the certified
    copy of the chargesheet placed on record, the Respondent no.1
    was charge-sheeted for the offences punishable under Sections
    279
    /337/338 IPC in FIR No. 0426/2023, PS Noida Sector-58,
    U.P. by the investigating agency after concluding its
    investigation on the aspect of cause of the accident as well as
    the identity of the offender, and therefore the same also indicates
    existence of rash and negligent driving of the offending vehicle
    by the Respondent No. 1. Strength for this interpretation is
    drawn from the judgment of National Insurance Co. Ltd. v.

    Pushpa Rana, 2009 ACJ 287 and United India Insurance Co.
    Ltd. v. Deepak Goel & Ors
    , 2014 (2) TAC 846 (Del) wherein the
    Coordinate Bench of the Hon’ble Delhi High Court, held as
    under :-

    “……where the claimants filed either the certified copies of the
    criminal record or the criminal record showing the completion of
    investigation by police or issuance of charge sheet under Section
    279
    /304A IPC or the certified copy of FIR or the recovery of the
    mechanical inspection report of the offending vehicle, then these
    documents are sufficient proof to reach to a conclusion that the
    driver was negligent particularly when there is no defence available
    from the side of driver.”

    (Emphasis supplied)

    31. The act of hitting the vehicle of the deceased from behind by
    the vehicle of the Respondent No.1 is itself indicative of rash
    and negligent driving by the Respondent No.1. It is a settled
    proposition of law, that the Petitioners cannot be expected to
    prove the accident beyond reasonable doubts and the principle
    of res ipsa loquitor i.e. “accident speaks for itself” is applicable,
    which implies that once it has been established in chargesheet
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    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP POOJA
    POOJA
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    that the accident had taken place, the burden shifts on the
    Respondents to prove that they were not responsible for the
    accident which the Respondents have failed to discharge.

    32. Thus, on a scale of preponderance of probabilities, upon
    consideration of the evidence as led including the chargesheet,
    as well as oral testimony of PW-2 Aditya Sharma and in the
    absence of any evidence as to the existence of any negligent/
    sudden act or omission on the part of the deceased/ driver of the
    motorcycle having been brought on record, it is held that the
    Petitioners have discharged their burden and proved that an
    accident that took place on 30.10.2023 at about 07.30 PM
    involving vehicle bearing registration No. DL-1CAG-9798
    driven rashly and negligently by the Respondent No. 1, owned
    by the Respondent No. 2 and insured with the Respondent No.
    3/ Insurance Company.

    33. During the course of final arguments, the Respondent No.1 has
    relied upon the mechanical inspection report of the offending
    vehicle to contend that the same proved their defence. However,
    it is duly noted that though the mechanical inspection report of
    the offending vehicle does in fact reflect damage to the rear
    diggy and the back side bumper, it does not reflect such damage
    to be fresh, and even R1W3 HC MT Upender Kumar testified
    that he could not say whether the damage were fresh or not. In
    the absence of any cogent evidence as to the damages being
    fresh, the mere recording in the mechanical inspection report of
    damage to the rear of the offending vehicle, does not render the
    defence of the Respondent No. 1 probable enough so as to
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    disbelieve the oral testimony of PW2 Aditya Sharma, which
    could not be discredited in the cross-examination.

    34. It has also been argued on behalf of the Respondent No.3/
    Insurance company, that as the deceased was not wearing a
    helmet at the time of the accident, there was contributory
    negligence on her part. However, the Respondent No.3/
    Insurance Company led no evidence to prove the factum of the
    deceased not wearing any helmet at the time of the accident, nor
    they could elicit any admission from the PW2 Aditya Sharma
    who was driving the vehicle on which the deceased was
    travelling, rather not even a single suggestion was put to PW2
    Aditya Sharma as to the deceased not wearing any helmet. Thus,
    in the absence of any cogent creditworthy evidence having been
    brought on record by the Respondents, the factum of the
    deceased not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident
    remains unproved, and no contributory negligence is brought
    forth. Thus, the argument as raised by the Respondent No. 3/
    Insurance Company is rejected.

    35. In as far as the factum of the deceased having sustained fatal
    injuries due the accident is concerned, it is noted that as per the
    testimony of PW-1 Smt. Sangeeta Sethi, the accident resulted in
    grievous injury to her daughter, who was admitted to MAX
    Hospital Vaishali from 30.10.2023 to 11.11.2023, then from
    18.11.2023 to 22.11.2023 and again from 16.12.2023 to
    30.12.2023. She has also testified that the deceased was then
    admitted to Max Hospital Shalimar Bagh, Delhi on 01.01.2024,
    where she expired during course of treatment on 02.01.2024 i.e.
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    after three months of the accident.

    36. PW1 has relied upon the MLC dated 30.10.2023 of Ms. Srishti
    Sethi, issued by MAX Health Care i.e. Ex.PW-1/5, as per which,
    the patient had been brought with alleged history of road traffic
    accident with injuries including depressed skull fracture over
    frontal region with multiple abrasions, degloving injuries over
    anterior aspect of left leg and multiple abrasion over both upper
    and lower limbs.

    37. She has also relied upon the discharge summary of Ms. Srishti
    issued by MAX Health Care i.e. Ex. PW1/8 which reflects that
    the deceased remained admitted in the Hospital from 30.10.2023
    to 11.11.2023 and was diagnosed with “Open book injury pelvis
    (Pubic symphysis disruption) with right side sacroiliac joint
    dislocation with B/L hip bone anterior colum fracture with
    polytrauma left leg degloving injury and nasal bone fracture”.

    38. The Petitioners have also examined PW-3 Manish Gupta who
    proved the discharge summary of Ms. Srishti, issued by MAX
    Super Speciality Hospital reflecting that she remained admitted
    in the Hospital from 18.11.2023 to 22.11.2023 and was
    diagnosed as being a follow up case of degloving injury of left
    leg. PW-3 Manish Gupta also proved the discharge summary of
    Ms. Srishti, issued by MAX Super Speciality Hospital reflecting
    that she remained admitted in the Hospital from 16.12.2023 to
    30.12.2023 and was diagnosed with “Entro-cuntaneous fistula
    with ileal perforation with faecal peritonitis”.

    Digitally signed

     MACT No. 219/24                                                  by POOJA
                                                                    AGGARWAL
     In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP   POOJA                         Page No. 17 of 46
     Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors.           AGGARWAL Date:
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                                                                      16:37:31
     DOD: 07.04.2026                                                  +0530
    

    39. PW-5 Pramod Arya has produced the death summary of Srishti
    Sethi, issued by Max Health Care (forming part of Ex. PW5/1
    (colly) reflecting the date of admission as 01.01.2024 and date
    of death as 02.01.2024 reflecting primary diagnosis as “AMS
    WITH SHOCK U/E; ? METABOLIC ENCEPHALOPATHY; ?

    SEPTIC SHOCK; TO R/O INTRACRAINAL PATHOLOGY;
    TO R/O PE/DVT” and secondary diagnosis “? METABOLIC
    ENCEPHALOPATHY POST OP ENTERO-CUNTANEOUS
    FISTULA WITH ILEAL PERFORATION WITH FAECAL
    PERITONITIS “, and the report (also Ex R1W2/1) also reflects
    the said secondary diagnosis to be the antecedent cause.

    40. These medical documents sufficiently prove that the injured
    remained under treatment since the date of the accident.

    41. It is also noted that R1W2 Dr. Preeti who proved the death
    summary Ex. R1W2/1, being the author thereof, has testified
    during her cross examination that the road traffic accident was
    not the direct cause of death of the deceased, but it may have
    been indirect cause as she had undergone multiple surgeries
    which leads to post operative complications like septic shock.
    Nothing has been brought on record to disbelieve the medical
    documents relied upon by the Petitioners or the testimony of
    R1W2 Dr. Preeti as to the accident being the antecedent cause of
    the death of the deceased.

    42. Thus, from the evidence on record, including medical
    documents/discharge summaries on record, it stands proved that
    the deceased remained under treatment since the date of
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    accident, and though she may have been discharged in stable
    condition as per the discharge summaries on record, no evidence
    has been brought on record by the Respondents to disbelieve
    that she remained under treatment as a result of injuries
    sustained by her in the accident, eventually leading to her death
    due to post operative complications like septic shock, with the
    antecedent cause being the accident. Hence, the factum of the
    accident having resulted in fatal injuries to the deceased Srishti
    Sethi stands proved.

    43. Issue no.1 is, accordingly, decided in favour of the Petitioners
    against the Respondents.

    Issue No. 2: Whether the Petitioners are entitled for
    compensation? If so, to what amount and from whom?;
    and
    Issue no.3 / Relief

    44. As the issue no. 1 has been decided in favour of Petitioners and
    against Respondents, the Petitioners are entitled to be
    compensated for the fatal injuries suffered by the deceased in
    the above accident and Section 168 of the MV Act enjoins upon
    this Tribunal to hold an inquiry into the claim to make an award
    determining the amount of compensation which appears to it to
    be just and reasonable.

    45. The guiding principles for assessment of “just and reasonable
    compensation” in fatal case has been enumerated by the Hon’ble
    Supreme Court of India, in Anjali v. Lokendra Rathod, 2022
    SCC OnLine SC 1683, wherein it has been observed that: –

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                                                                     AGGARWAL
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    “The provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (for short, “MV
    Act
    “) gives paramount importance to the concept of ‘just and fair’
    compensation. It is a beneficial legislation which has been framed
    with the object of providing relief to the victims or their families.
    Section 168 of the MV Act deals with the concept of ‘just
    compensation’ which ought to be determined on the foundation of
    fairness, reasonableness and equitability. Although such
    determination can never be arithmetically exact or perfect, an
    endeavor should be made by the Court to award just and fair
    compensation irrespective of the amount claimed by the
    applicant/s. In Sarla Verma v. Delhi Transport Corporation, (2009)
    6 SCC 121, this Court has laid down as under:

    16.”Just compensation” is adequate compensation which is
    fair and equitable, on the facts and circumstances of the case,
    to make good the loss suffered as a result of the wrong, as far
    as money can do so, by applying the well settled principles
    relating to award of compensation. It is not intended to be a
    bonanza, largesse or source of profit.”

    (Emphasis supplied)

    46. In Sarla Verma v. Delhi Transport Corporation, (2009) 6 SCC
    121 , the Hon’ble Supreme Court has also observed that:

    “17. Assessment of compensation though involving certain
    hypothetical considerations, should nevertheless be objective.
    Justice and justness emanate from equality in treatment, consistency
    and thoroughness in adjudication, and fairness and uniformity in the
    decision making process and the decisions. While it may not be
    possible to have mathematical precision or identical awards, in
    assessing compensation, same or similar facts should lead to awards
    in the same range. When the factors/inputs are the same, and the
    formula/legal principles are the same, consistency and uniformity,
    and not divergence and freakiness, should be the result of
    adjudication to arrive at just compensation.

    18. Basically only three facts need to be established by the
    claimants for assessing compensation in the case of death:

    (a) age of the deceased;

    (b) income of the deceased; and

    (c) the number of dependents.

    The issues to be determined by the Tribunal to arrive at the loss of
    dependency are:

    (i) additions/deductions to be made for arriving at the income;

    (ii) the deduction to be made towards the personal living
    expenses of the deceased; and

    (iii) the multiplier to be applied with reference of the age of the
    deceased.

    If these determinants are standardized, there will be uniformity and
    consistency in the decisions. There will lesser need for detailed
    evidence. It will also be easier for the insurance companies to settle
    accident claims without delay. Digitally signed
    by POOJA
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    19. To have uniformity and consistency, Tribunals should
    determine compensation in cases of death, by the following well
    settled steps:

    Step 1 (Ascertaining the multiplicand)
    The income of the deceased per annum should be determined. Out
    of the said income a deduction should be made in regard to the
    amount which the deceased would have spent on himself by way of
    personal and living expenses. The balance, which is considered to
    be the contribution to the dependant family, constitutes the
    multiplicand.

    Step 2 (Ascertaining the multiplier)
    Having regard to the age of the deceased and period of active
    career, the appropriate multiplier should be selected. This does not
    mean ascertaining the number of years he would have lived or
    worked but for the accident. Having regard to several
    imponderables in life and economic factors, a table of multipliers
    with reference to the age has been identified by this Court. The
    multiplier should be chosen from the said table with reference to
    the age of the deceased.

    Step 3 (Actual calculation) The annual contribution to the
    family (multiplicand) when multiplied by such multiplier gives the
    `loss of dependency’ to the family.

    Thereafter, a conventional amount in the range of Rs. 5,000/- to
    Rs.10,000/- may be added as loss of estate. Where the deceased is
    survived by his widow, another conventional amount in the range
    of 5,000/- to 10,000/- should be added under the head of loss of
    consortium. But no amount is to be awarded under the head of pain,
    suffering or hardship caused to the legal heirs of the deceased.
    The funeral expenses, cost of transportation of the body (if
    incurred) and cost of any medical treatment of the deceased before
    death (if incurred) should also added.”

    (Emphasis supplied)

    47. In view of the above legal propositions, the amount of
    compensation shall be computed.

    Age and Income of Deceased

    48. In respect of age and income of the deceased, PW-1/ Petitioner
    No. 1 has testified in her evidence by way of affidavit i.e. Ex.

    PW1/A to the effect that at the time of accident, her daughter i.e.
    deceased was aged about 27 years and she was working as an
    Associate Project Manager in Trio Tree Technologies Pvt. Ltd
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    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors.
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    earning ₹63,317/- per month. She also relied upon a copy of
    Aadhaar Card of the deceased i.e. Ex. PW-1/2 as well as
    educational documents i.e. Ex.PW-1/7 (Colly), as per which the
    date of of birth of the deceased was 24.12.1996. As the accident
    took place on 30.10.2023, the age of deceased was around 26
    years at the time of the accident, hence, the age of the deceased
    would be considered to be 26 years for the purpose of
    computation of compensation.

    49. In respect of the income of the deceased, it is noted that the
    PW4 Chandan Kumar Mishra has produced the salary slip of the
    deceased as a part of Ex PW4/1 as per which the gross salary
    (including allowances) is ₹65,367/-, and the net salary is
    ₹63,317/- after deductions towards PF contribution (₹1,800/-)
    and towards medical deduction (₹250/-), and no Income Tax has
    been deducted therefrom. During his cross-examination, PW4
    Chandan Kumar Mishra has testified that no income tax was
    deducted by them, as the deceased was on the new taxable
    regime for the financial year 2023-24.

    50. The law is well settled that while calculating the income, there
    should be no exclusion of the allowances payable as per the last
    pay slip, and allowances, under the head of Transport
    Allowance, House Rent Allowance, provident fund and Special
    Allowances, have to be added while considering the benchmark
    income.

    51. Strength for this interpretation is drawn from the judgment in
    Reliance General Insurance Co. Ltd. v. Meenakshi, 2026 SCC
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    OnLine Del 902, wherein the Hon’ble Delhi High Court has also
    observed that:

    20. There is yet another order of the Supreme Court
    in Meenakshi v. Oriental Insurance Co. Ltd., 2024 SCC OnLine SC
    1872, wherein it has been held that allowances, under the head of
    Transport Allowance, House Rent Allowance, provident fund and
    Special Allowances, have to be added while considering the
    benchmark income.” Relevant paragraph is extracted as under:

    “8. In Raghuvir Singh Matolya v. Hari Singh Malviya4, this
    Court held that the house rent allowance ought to be included
    for determining the income of the deceased. The relevant paras
    are extracted hereinbelow for ready reference:–

    “6. Dearness allowance, in our opinion, should form a
    part of the income. House rent allowance is paid for the
    benefit of the family members and not for the employee
    alone. What would constitute an income, albeit in a
    different fact situation, came up for consideration before
    this Court in National Insurance Co. Ltd. v. Indira
    Srivastava
    [(2008) 2 SCC 763 : (2008) 1 SCC (Civ)
    744 : (2008) 1 SCC (Cri) 550] wherein it was held:

    “19. The amounts, therefore, which were required
    to be paid to the deceased by his employer by
    way of perks, should be included for computation
    of his monthly income as that would have been
    added to his monthly income by way of
    contribution to the family as contradistinguished
    to the ones which were for his benefit. We may,
    however, hasten to add that from the said amount
    of income, the statutory amount of tax payable
    thereupon must be deducted.

    20. The term ‘income’ in P. Ramanatha Aiyar’s
    Advanced Law Lexicon (3rd Edn.) has been
    defined as under:

    (iii) the value of any benefit or perquisite whether
    convertible into money or not, obtained from a
    company either by a Director or a person who has
    substantial interest in the company, and any sum
    paid by such company in respect of any
    obligation, which but for such payment would
    have been payable by the Director or other person
    aforesaid, occurring or arising to a person within
    the State from any profession, trade or calling
    other than agriculture
    ‘It has also been stated:'”Income” signifies “what
    comes in” (per Selborne,
    C., Jones v. Ogle [[1861-73] All ER Rep 918]).

    “It is as large a word as can be used” to denote a
    person’s receipts (per Jessel, M.R., Huggins, ex
    p., Re [51 LJ Ch 935]). Income is not confined to
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    receipts from business only and means periodical
    receipts from one’s work, lands, investments,
    etc. Secy. to the Board of Revenue, income
    tax v. Al. Ar. Rm. Arunachalam Chettiar &
    Bros. [1920 SCC OnLine Mad 207 : AIR 1921
    Mad 427] Ref. Vulvun Insurance Co. Ltd. v
    Corpn of Madras
    [1929 SCC OnLine Mad
    217 : AIR 1930 Mad 626 (2)].’

    21. If the dictionary meaning of the word
    ‘income’ is taken to its logical conclusion, it
    should include those benefits, either in terms of
    money or otherwise, which are taken into
    consideration for the purpose of payment of
    income tax or professional tax although some
    elements thereof may or may not be taxable or
    would have been otherwise taxable but for the
    exemption conferred thereupon under the statute.
    To the same effect is the decision of this Court
    in Oriental Insurance Company Limited v. Ram
    Prasad Varma
    [(2009) 2 SCC 712 : (2009) 1 SCC
    (Civ) 705 : (2009) 1 SCC (Cri) 853 : (2009) 1
    Scale 598].

    7. We, therefore, are of the opinion that “dearness
    allowance” and “house rent allowance” payable
    to the deceased should have been included for
    determining the income of the deceased and
    consequently the amount of compensation.”

    (emphasis supplied)

    9. Recently in a judgment dated 11-7-2024
    in National Insurance Company Ltd. v.Nalini [Petition
    for Special Leave to Appeal (C) No. 4230/2019], this
    Court held that, allowances under the heads of transport
    allowance, house rent allowance, provident fund loan,
    provident fund and special allowance ought to be added
    while considering the basic salary of the victim/deceased
    to arrive at the dependency factor.

    10. Therefore, components of house rent allowance,
    flexible benefit plan and company contribution to
    provident fund have to be included in the salary of the
    deceased while applying the component of rise in income
    by future prospects to determine the dependency factor.
    The Accident Claims Tribunal was justified in factoring
    these components into the salary of the deceased, before
    applying 50% rise by future prospects due to future
    prospects, while calculating the total compensation
    payable to the appellant.”

    (Emphasis added)

    52. It is also a settled proposition of law that the actual income is to
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    be arrived at after income tax payable is to be deducted.
    Strength for this interpretation is drawn from Vimal Kanwar v.
    Kishore Dan
    , (2013) 7 SCC 476, (also referred to in Universal
    Sompo General Insurance Company Ltd. v. Dinesh Kumar
    Singh
    , 2025: DHC: 4930) where the Hon’ble Apex Court while
    relying on the judgment of Sarla Verma and Ors. v. Delhi
    Transport Corporation and Anr
    (supra) observed as under:

    “22. The third issue is “whether the income tax is liable to be
    deducted for determination of compensation under the Motor
    Vehicles Act
    “.

    23. In Sarla Verma this Court held:

    “20. Generally, the actual income of the deceased less income tax
    should be the starting point for calculating compensation”

    This Court further observed that:

    “24. … Where the annual income is in taxable range, the words
    ‘actual salary’ should be read as ‘actual salary less tax’.”
    Therefore, it is clear that if the annual income comes within the
    taxable range, income tax is required to be deducted for
    determination of the actual salary. But while deducting income tax
    from the salary, it is necessary to notice the nature of the income of
    the victim. If the victim is receiving income chargeable under the
    head “salaries” one should keep in mind that under Section 192(1)
    of the Income Tax Act, 1961 any person responsible for paying any
    income chargeable under the head “salaries” shall at the time of
    payment, deduct income tax on estimated income of the employee
    from “salaries” for that financial year. Such deduction is commonly
    known as tax deducted at source (“TDS”, for short). When the
    employer fails in default to deduct the TDS from the employee’s
    salary, as it is his duty to deduct the TDS, then the penalty for non-
    deduction of TDS is prescribed under Section 201(1-A) of the
    Income Tax Act, 1961
    . Therefore, in case the income of the victim
    is only from “salary”, the presumption would be that the employer
    under Section 192 (1) of the Income- tax Act, 1961 has deducted the
    tax at source from the employee’s salary. In case if an objection is
    raised by any party, the objector is required to prove by producing
    evidence such as LPC to suggest that the employer failed to deduct
    the TDS from the salary of the employee. However, there can be
    cases where the victim is not a salaried person i.e. his income is
    from sources other than salary, and the annual income falls within
    taxable range, in such cases, if any objection as to deduction of tax
    is made by a party then the claimant is required to prove that the
    victim has already paid income tax and no further tax has to be
    deducted from the income.”

                                                           (Emphasis supplied)
    
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    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors.
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    53. In view of the aforesaid propositions of law, the income of the
    deceased payable at the time of her death shall be computed.

    54. It is duly noted that the monthly income of the deceased as
    reflected from her payslip inclusive of all allowances comes to
    ₹65,117/- (after deducting only medical deduction of ₹250/- per
    month), which thus comes to be ₹7,81,404/- annually. No other
    source of income of the deceased has been brought on record.

    55. As per the testimony of PW4 Chandan Kumar Mishra, they did
    not deduct any tax, as the deceased was on the new taxable
    regime for the financial year 2023-24. Thus, from the testimony
    of PW4 Chandan Kumar Mishra it stands proved that no income
    tax was deducted by them being the employer of the deceased.
    However, in view of the legal proposition discussed above, even
    if no tax is deducted at source by the employer, if the income of
    the deceased was taxable, resulting in a liability for her to pay,
    the same would have to be deducted from her income.

    56. In the case at hand, no ITR of the deceased has been placed or
    proved on record. In such a scenario, her tax liability would
    have to be worked out on the basis of her computed annual
    salary of ₹7,81,404/-.

    57. It is duly noted that the accident took place on 30.10.2023, and
    The Ministry of Finance by way of the Finance Bill, 2023
    notified the tax slabs applicable for the financial year 2023-24
    as per which no tax is payable for income up to ₹3,00,000; a tax
    MACT No. 219/24 POOJA
    Digitally signed by
    POOJA AGGARWAL
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07 Page No. 26 of 46
    16:38:37 +0530
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors.
    DOD: 07.04.2026
    of 5% is payable in respect of the income between ₹3,00,001 –
    ₹6,00,000 and 10% of the income is payable for income
    between ₹6,00,001 – ₹9,00,000. Further, a standard deduction
    of ₹50,000/- has also been made applicable for the tax payer,
    while a Health & Education Cess of 4% is also applicable.

    58. That being so, in respect of the present case, as the income of
    the deceased was ₹7,81,404/- annually, a sum of ₹50,000/-
    would be deducted therefrom as standard deduction resulting in
    the taxable income being ₹7,31,404/-. For the said income,
    there would be NIL tax payable for the income upto
    ₹3,00,000/-; ₹15,000/- as tax for the income between ₹3,00,001
    to ₹6,00,000/- (being 5% of ₹3,00,000) and ₹13,140/- as tax for
    the income between ₹6,00,001 to ₹7,31,404 being 10% of
    ₹1,31,404. Hence, the total tax before the cess would be
    ₹28,140/-. After considering the 4% Health & Education Cess
    (4%), additional tax of ₹1,126/- would have been payable, and
    hence the Total Tax Payable comes to be ₹29,266/- which has to
    be deducted from the computed income of ₹7,31,404/- which
    then comes to ₹7,02,138/-.

    59. Hence, the post tax income of the deceased has been computed
    to be ₹7,02,138/- annual income, which shall be considered for
    the purpose of computation of the quantum of compensation.

    Dependency upon the Deceased

    60. In respect of the question of dependency, it is noted that the
    Petitioners No.1 and 2 are the mother and sister of the deceased,
    and PW-1/ Petitioner No.1 has categorically testified that the
    Digitally signed
    MACT No. 219/24 by POOJA
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP POOJA AGGARWAL Page No. 27 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. AGGARWAL Date:

    2026.04.07
    DOD: 07.04.2026 16:38:43 +0530
    deceased was supporting her family financially from her
    income, and they were completely dependent upon the
    deceased. The memo of parties as well as the affidavit of the
    Petitioners filed along with the Petition reflects the name of the
    husband / father of the Petitioners No.1 and 2 respectively as
    Late Sh Sanjay Kumar Sethi, and no reason has been brought on
    record to disbelieve that the father of the deceased as well as
    Petitioner No.2 had already expired.

    61. It is duly noted that the Respondents did not even controvert the
    factum of the dependency of the Petitioners upon the deceased,
    and no source of income of the Petitioners have been brought on
    record including that of Petitioner No.2 who was merely about
    18 years old at the time of the accident, whose father has already
    expired. That being so, both the Petitioners would be considered
    as dependents of the deceased for the purpose of computation of
    compensation.

    A) Computation of compensation
    on account of loss of dependency

    62. In respect of the computation under this head, it is noted that as
    laid down in the judgment of Sarla Verma & Ors. Vs. Delhi
    Transport Corporation & Anr.
    , (2009) 6 SCC 121, the loss of
    dependency to the family is to be calculated by multiplying the
    annual contribution to the family (multiplicand) by the
    multiplier.

    Multiplicand

    63. For the calculation of the Multiplicand, as per the judgment of
    Sarla Verma, after the income of the deceased per annum is
    MACT No. 219/24 Digitally signed
    by POOJA
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP POOJA AGGARWAL Page No. 28 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07
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    DOD: 07.04.2026
    determined, a deduction is to be made from such annual income
    in regard to the amount which the deceased would have spent on
    himself by way of personal and living expenses, and the
    balance, which is considered to be the contribution to the
    dependent family, constitutes the multiplicand.

    64. In the present case, the deceased was aged about 26 years at the
    time of the accident, in view of the law laid down in the case of
    National Insurance Company Ltd. v. Pranay Sethi, (2017) 16
    SCC 680, an addition of 40% of her income is to be made to her
    earnings towards future prospects. Hence the monthly income
    of the deceased is calculated to be ₹81,916.10/- (₹7,02,138/-
    divided by 12 + ₹23,404.60/- which is 40% of ₹58,511.5/-).

    65. Further, with it having been brought on record that there were 2
    dependents of the deceased at the time of her demise, the
    deduction of 1/3rd is applicable. Hence, in view of judgment of
    the Supreme Court in Sarla Verma (Smt) & Ors. vs. Delhi
    Transport Corporation & Anr.
    , (2009) 6 SCC 121, and United
    India Insurance Co. Ltd. vs. Satinder Kaur
    alias Satwinder Kaur
    & Ors., (2021) 11 SCC 780, out of the above amount so
    assessed, a sum of ₹27,305.36/- has to be deducted on account
    of her personal and living expenses. That being so, the monthly
    loss of dependency is calculated to be ₹54,610.73/- (i.e. 2/3rd of
    ₹81,916.10/-) which has to be multiplied by 12 to arrive at the
    multiplicand i.e. annual loss of dependency. Hence, multiplicand
    would be ₹6,55,328.8/- (₹54,610.73/- x 12).

    Digitally signed
    by POOJA

      MACT No. 219/24                                       POOJA    AGGARWAL
      In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP   AGGARWAL Date:               Page No. 29 of 46
                                                                      2026.04.07
      Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors.                     16:38:51 +0530
      DOD: 07.04.2026
                                                             Multiplier
    

    66. In the case of Sarla Verma & Ors. Vs. Delhi Transport
    Corporation & Anr.
    , (2009) 6 SCC 121, which has also been
    upheld by the Constitutional Bench of the Hon’ble Supreme
    Court in the case of National Insurance Company Ltd. Vs.
    Pranay Sethi & Ors.
    2017 (16) SCC 680, the multipliers have
    been enumerated for calculating the loss of dependency caused
    on account of death of the deceased.
    The relevant portion of the
    judgment of Sarla Verma & Ors. Vs. Delhi Transport
    Corporation & Anr.
    , (2009) 6 SCC 121 is reproduced as under

    for ready reference:

    ” We therefore hold that the multiplier to be used should be as
    mentioned in column (4) of the Table above (prepared by applying
    Susamma Thomas, Trilok Chandra and Charlie), which starts with
    an operative multiplier of 18 (for the age groups of 15 to 20 and 21
    to 25 years), reduced by one unit for every five years, that is M-17
    for 26 to 30 years, M-16 for 31 to 35 years, M-15 for 36 to 40
    years, M-14 for 41 to 45 years, and M-13 for 46 to 50 years, then
    reduced by two units for every five years, that is, M-11 for 51 to
    55 years, M-9 for 56 to 60 years, M-7 for 61 to 65 years and M-5
    for 66 to 70 years.”

    (Emphasis supplied)

    67. In the present case, with the deceased being aged 26 years at the
    time of the accident, the multiplier of 17 would be applicable.
    Thus, the loss of dependency qua the deceased in the present
    case is calculated to be ₹1,11,40,590/- (rounded off from
    ₹1,11,40,589.60) (i.e. Multiplicand of ₹6,55,328.8/- x
    Multiplier of 17).

    B) Computation of Compensation
    under Non-Pecuniary Heads

    68. In respect of the compensation under non-pecuniary heads, in
    Rajwati @ Rajjo & Ors. v. United India Insurance Co. Ltd. ,
    MACT No.
    219/24 Digitally signed by
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP POOJA POOJA AGGARWAL Page No. 30 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07
    16:38:56 +0530
    DOD: 07.04.2026
    2022 SCC OnLine SC 1699, the Hon’ble Supreme Court of
    India has held that:

    “A three Judge Bench of this Court in United India Insurance Co.
    Ltd vs Satinder Kaur @ Satwinder Kaur & Ors.
    (2021) 11 SCC
    780 , has awarded spousal consortium at the rate of Rs.40,000/-
    and towards loss of parental consortium to each child at the rate of
    Rs.40,000/-. The compensation under these heads also needs to be
    increased by 10% after every three years. Accordingly, the grant of
    Rs.40,000/- towards loss of consortium is increased to Rs.44,000/-
    to each Appellant, amounting to a total of Rs.2,20,000/-. Along
    with this, Rs.15,000/- each for the heads of ‘funeral expenses’ and
    ‘loss of estate’ is also very meagre. In our considered opinion, an
    amount of Rs.20,000/- is liable to be paid towards funeral
    expenses. Similarly, award of Rs.15,000/- towards ‘loss of estate’
    is liable to be increased to Rs.20,000/-.”

    (Emphasis supplied)

    69. In view of the aforesaid legal proposition, the Petitioners herein
    are also awarded a sum of ₹20,000/- towards funeral expenses
    and another sum of ₹20,000/- towards loss of estate. Further, a
    sum of ₹48,400/- each is granted to the Petitioners i.e. total of
    ₹48,400/- x 2 = ₹96,800/- towards Loss of Consortium.

    70. In respect of loss of love and affection as a separate head, the
    Hon’ble Supreme Court has observed in the case of United India
    Insurance Company Ltd. Vs. Satinder Kaur @ Satwinder Kaur
    ,
    2020 SCC Online SC 410 that there is no justification to award
    compensation towards loss of love and affection as a separate
    head. The relevant portion of the observations are reproduced
    as under:

    “33. The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 is a beneficial legislation which
    has been framed with the object of providing relief to the victims, or
    their families, in cases of genuine claims. In case where a parent has
    lost their minor child, or unmarried son or daughter, the parents are
    entitled to be awarded loss of consortium under the head of Filial
    Consortium. Parental Consortium is awarded to the children who
    lose the care and protection of their parents in motor vehicle
    accidents. The amount to be awarded for loss consortium will be as
    per the amount fixed in Pranay Sethi (supra).

      MACT No. 219/24                                                  Digitally signed by
                                                            POOJA      POOJA AGGARWAL
      In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP   AGGARWAL   Date: 2026.04.07      Page No. 31 of 46
      Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors.                      16:39:01 +0530
    
      DOD: 07.04.2026
    

    34. At this stage, we consider it necessary to provide uniformity
    with respect to the grant of consortium, and loss of love and
    affection. Several Tribunals and High Courts have been awarding
    compensation for both loss of consortium and loss of love and
    affection. The Constitution Bench in Pranay Sethi (supra), has
    recognized only three conventional heads under which
    compensation can be awarded viz. loss of estate, loss of consortium
    and funeral expenses.
    In Magma General (supra), this Court gave a
    comprehensive interpretation to consortium to include spousal
    consortium, parental consortium, as well as filial consortium. Loss
    of love and affection is comprehended in loss of consortium.

    35. The Tribunals and High Courts are directed to award
    compensation for loss of consortium, which is a legitimate
    conventional head. There is no justification to award compensation
    towards loss of love and affection as a separate head.”

    (Emphasis supplied)

    71. That being so, in the present case, the Petitioners are not
    awarded separate compensation towards loss of love and
    affection.

    Expenses relating to treatment, hospitalization, and medicines
    prior to the death of the deceased

    72. The Petitioners have proved the various medical bills through
    PW-3 and PW-5 vide Ex. PW-3/1 (Colly) and Ex.PW-5/1
    (Colly) in respect of the medical bills/ treatment of the deceased
    which they have incurred prior to her death to the tune of
    ₹23,30,733/-. The bills placed on record by Petitioners have not
    been discredited or disputed or disproved by the Respondents
    either during the evidence or even during the course of final
    arguments, and are in respect of expenses which have been
    incurred on the medical treatment of the deceased just prior to
    her death. That being so, the Petitioners are awarded a sum of
    ₹23,30,733/- which is the total of the bills produced by them on
    record towards treatment/ medicine expenses of the deceased.

    Digitally signed

    MACT No. 219/24 by POOJA
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP
    POOJA AGGARWAL Page No. 32 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07
    16:39:08 +0530
    DOD: 07.04.2026

    73. Thus, the total compensation awarded to the Petitioners towards
    loss of dependency as well as non-pecuniary head is
    ₹1,36,08,123/- under the following heads:

    i) Loss of Dependency: ₹1,11,40,590/- (rounded off)

    ii) Loss of Consortium: ₹96,800/-

    iii) Funeral Expenses: ₹20,000/-

    iv) Loss of estate: ₹20,000/-

    v) Medical Expenses: ₹23,30,733/-

    74. In respect of entitlement of the Petitioners to interest on the
    awarded amount, it is duly noted that the case is pending since
    27.03.2024, and the rate of interest of fixed deposits in
    Nationalized banks has fluctuated/dropped several times during
    the pendency of the present proceedings. Thus, in the interest of
    justice and keeping in view the principles discussed in order
    dated 21.04.2023 passed by the Hon’ble Delhi High Court
    in United India Insurance Co. Ltd. vs. Baby Raksha & Ors,
    MAC APP. No. 36/2023, the claimants/ Petitioners are awarded
    interest @ 7.5% per annum, from the date of filing of the
    petition i.e. with effect from 27.03.2024 till date of the award.
    The amount of interim award, if any, be deducted from the
    above amount, if the same has already been paid to the
    Petitioners.

    Liability

    75. As already stated above, Respondent No.1 being the driver and
    principal tortfeasor; and Respondent No.2 being owner of the
    offending vehicle being vicariously liable for the acts of
    Respondent No.1, are jointly and severally liable to pay the
    Digitally signed
    MACT No. 219/24 POOJA
    by POOJA
    AGGARWAL
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP AGGARWAL Date:

    2026.04.07 Page No. 33 of 46

    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. 16:39:13 +0530

    DOD: 07.04.2026
    awarded amount of compensation to petitioners. However, since
    the offending vehicle was insured with Respondent No.3 at the
    time of accident and the Respondent No.3 / Insurance Company
    has not raised any statutory defence in denial of their liability,
    hence, the Respondent No.3 shall be liable to pay the
    compensation amount to the Petitioners.

    76. Issue No. 2 is accordingly decided in favour of the Petitioners
    and against the Respondents.

    Apportionment

    77. In respect of issue no.3, as the Petitioners have been held to be
    entitled to a compensation of ₹1,56,77,692/- inclusive of
    interest (i.e. ₹20,69,569/- (rounded off)) and it has been brought
    on record that the deceased is survived by her mother and sister
    only, the individual shares of the dependents of the deceased are
    apportioned and tabulated as under:

    S.No. Name of the Relation Share of the Calculation of
    beneficiary with the beneficiary the amount as
    deceased per share

    1. Smt. Mother 60% of ₹66,84,354/-+
    Sangeeta compensation ₹48,400/- +
    Sethi account of loss ₹20,000/- +
    of dependency ₹20,000/- +
    (i.e. 60% of ₹23,30,733/- i.e.
    ₹1,11,40,590/-) total of
    + Loss of ₹91,03,487/-

                                                                       consortium+      along with
                                                                          funeral    interest @ 7.5%
                                                                     expenses+ Loss per annum from
                                                                        of Estate +  date of filing of
                                                                         Medical      the petition till
                                                                         expenses       the date of
                                                                                           award
      MACT No. 219/24                                                             Digitally signed
                                                                                  by POOJA
      In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP               POOJA    AGGARWAL               Page No. 34 of 46
                                                                        AGGARWAL Date:
      Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors.                                 2026.04.07
                                                                                  16:39:17 +0530
      DOD: 07.04.2026
                                                                                                i.e. ₹13,84,489/-
                                                                                                  (rounded off
                                                                                                      from
                                                                                               ₹13,84,488.648)
                                                                                                   total being
                                                                                                ₹1,04,87,976/-
                                                                                                 (rounded off)
      2.               Ishita Sethi                        Sister        40% of                 ₹44,56,236/-
                                                                     compensation             +₹48,400/- i.e.
                                                                    account of loss                 total of
                                                                    of dependency               ₹45,04,636/-
                                                                      (i.e. 40% of               along with
                                                                    ₹1,11,40,590/-)           interest @ 7.5%
                                                                       + Loss of              per annum from
                                                                      consortium              date of filing of
                                                                                               the petition till
                                                                                                  the date of
                                                                                                     award
                                                                                              i.e. ₹6,85,080/-
                                                                                                (rounded off
                                                                                                      from
                                                                                              ₹6,85,080.058/-)
                                                                                               i.e. total being
                                                                                                ₹51,89,716/-
    
    
                                                    Release/ Disbursement
    

    78. As per the Financial Statement of Petitioners recorded in this
    case, the monthly expenses of the family are approximately
    ₹30,000/- to ₹35,000/- per month. Hence, while deciding the
    quantum and manner of disbursement of the awarded amounts,
    the following directions given by the Hon’ble Delhi High Court
    vide orders dated 07.12.2018 & 08.01.2021 in FAO No.
    842/2003 titled Rajesh Tyagi & Ors. Vs. Jaivir Singh & Ors.

    have to be borne in mind:

    “(i) The bank shall not permit any joint name to be added in the
    saving account or fixed deposit accounts of the claimants i.e.
    saving bank accounts of the claimants shall be an individual
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    AGGARWAL
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    DOD: 07.04.2026
    saving bank account and not a joint account.

    (ii) Original fixed deposit shall be retained by the bank in safe
    custody. However, the statement containing FDR number, FDR
    amount, date of maturity and maturity amount shall be furnished
    by bank to the claimants.

    (iii) The maturity amount of the FDRs be credited by the ECS in
    the saving bank account of the claimant near the place of their
    residence.

    (iv) No loan, advance or withdrawal or premature discharge be
    allowed on the fixed deposits without the permission of the court

    (v) The concerned bank shall not issue any cheque book and/or
    debit card to claimants. However, in case the debit card and/or
    cheque book have already been issued, bank shall cancel the
    same before the disbursement of the award amount. The bank
    shall debit card(s) freeze the account of claimants so that no debit
    card be issued in respect of the account of claimants from any
    other branch of the bank.

    (vi) The bank shall make an endorsement on the passbook of the
    claimant to the effect, that no cheque books and/or debit card
    have been issued and shall not be issued without the permission
    of the Court and the claimant shall produced the passbook with
    the necessary endorsement before the Court for compliance.”

    (Emphasis Supplied)

    79. It is also noted that thereafter, in Parminder Singh vs Honey
    Goyal, S.L.P. (C) No.
    4484 OF 2020 as decided by the Hon’ble
    Supreme Court of India on 18 March, 2025 it has been further
    directed that:

    “17. The case in hand pertains to the compensation awarded under
    the Motor Vehicles Act. The general practice followed by the
    insurance companies, where the compensation is not disputed, is to
    deposit the same before the Tribunal. Instead of following that
    process, a direction can always be issued to transfer the amount
    into the bank account(s) of the claimant(s) with intimation to the
    Tribunal.

    17.1 For that purpose, the Tribunals at the initial stage of pleadings
    or at the stage of leading evidence may require the claimant(s) to
    furnish their bank account particulars to the Tribunal along with
    the requisite proof, so that at the stage of passing of the award the
    Tribunal may direct that the amount of compensation be
    transferred in the account of the claimant and if there are more
    than one then in their respective accounts. If there is no bank
    account, then they should be required to open the bank account
    MACT No. 219/24 Digitally signed
    by POOJA
    POOJA
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP AGGARWAL
    AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07 Page No. 36 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. 16:39:26 +0530

    DOD: 07.04.2026
    either individually or jointly with family members only. It should
    also be mandated that, in case there is any change in the bank
    account particulars of the claimant(s) during the pendency of the
    claim petition they should update the same before the Tribunal.
    This should be ensured before passing of the final award. It may be
    ensured that the bank account should be in the name of the
    claimant(s) and if minor, through guardian(s) and in no case it
    should be a joint account with any person, who is not a family
    member. The transfer of the amount in the bank account,
    particulars of which have been furnished by the claimant(s), as
    mentioned in the award, shall be treated as satisfaction of the
    award. Intimation of compliance should be furnished to the
    Tribunal.”

    (Emphasis supplied)

    80. In view of the same, the award amount can now be disbursed in
    the Savings Bank Account of the Petitioners. However, the
    remaining directions as passed by the Hon’ble Delhi High Court
    shall be complied with.

    81. In view of the aforesaid directions, the disbursement of the
    awarded amount is directed as under:

    Disbursement qua Smt. Sangeeta Sethi (Mother):

    82. After considering the financial statement of the Petitioners, it is
    directed that upon realization of the awarded amount, out of the
    share of the Petitioner No. 1/ Mother, a sum of ₹32,87,976/-
    (Rupees Thirty Two Lakhs Eighty Seven Thousand Nine
    Hundred Seventy Six only) (inclusive of the medical expenses)
    shall be released to her immediately in her Bank Account No.
    44226863872, IFSC Code SBIN0000726, State Bank of India,
    Tis Hazari Court as furnished by her at the time of recording of
    her financial statement.

    83. The balance amount of ₹72,00,000/- (Rupees Seventy Two
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    by POOJA
    AGGARWAL Page No. 37 of 46
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    2026.04.07
    DOD: 07.04.2026 16:39:32 +0530
    Lakhs Only) shall be put in 240 monthly fixed deposits in her
    name in her account as mentioned above of equal amount of
    ₹30,000/- (Rupees Thirty Thousand only) each for a period of
    01 month to 240 months respectively, with cumulative interest,
    in terms of the directions contained in FAO No. 842/2003 dated
    07.12.2018 & 08.01.2021. Besides the above said amount,
    amount of FDRs on maturity, shall automatically be transferred
    in her saving account maintained in the nationalized bank
    situated near the place of her residence.

    Disbursement qua Ms. Ishita Sethi (Sister):

    84. After considering the financial statement of the Petitioner No.2,
    it is directed that upon realization of the awarded amount, out of
    the share of the Petitioner No.2 / Sister, the sum of ₹5,39,716/-
    (Rupees Five Lakhs Thirty Nine Thousand Seven and Sixteen
    only) shall be released to her immediately in her Bank Account
    No. 44226593359, IFSC Code SBIN0000726, State Bank of
    India, Tis Hazari Court as furnished by her at the time of
    recording of her financial statement.

    85. The balance amount of ₹46,50,000/- (Rupees Forty Six Lakhs
    Fifty Thousand Only) shall be put in 186 monthly fixed deposits
    in her name in her account as mentioned above of equal amount
    of ₹25,000/- (Rupees Twenty Five Thousand only) each for a
    period of 01 month to 186 months respectively, with cumulative
    interest, in terms of the directions contained in FAO No.
    842/2003 dated 07.12.2018 & 08.01.2021. Besides the above
    said amount, amount of FDRs on maturity, shall automatically
    be transferred in her saving account maintained in the
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    POOJA AGGARWAL
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP AGGARWAL Date: Page No. 38 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. 2026.04.07
    16:39:47 +0530
    DOD: 07.04.2026
    nationalized bank situated near the place of her residence.

    86. The Respondent No.3/ IFFCO Tokio General Insurance
    Company Ltd. is directed to deposit the awarded sum of
    ₹1,56,77,692/- (Rupees One Crore Fifty Six Lakhs Seventy
    Seven Thousand Six Hundred and Ninety Two only), inclusive
    of interest @ 7.5% p.a. from the date of filing of petition till the
    date of the award (as rounded off) within 30 days by way of
    NEFT or RTGS mode directly in the MACT account of the
    Petitioners as mentioned in the Para No. 82 and 84 of this award
    under intimation to the Petitioners as well as this Tribunal
    failing which the said Respondent shall be liable to pay interest
    @ 12 % per annum for the period of delay beyond 30 days.
    (Ref: Oriental Insurance Company Ltd. Vs. Niru @ Niharika &
    Ors. SLP
    no. 22136 of 2024 decided on 14.07.2025 by the
    Hon’ble Supreme Court.).

    87. The concerned Manager of the bank of the Petitioners is
    directed to release the amount to the Petitioners only as per the
    award upon completion of necessary formalities as per the rules.
    He/ She is directed to keep the amount in fixed deposits as per
    the directions given in the award and to send a compliance
    report to this court. He/ She is also directed to ensure that no
    loan, advance or pre mature discharge is allowed on the fixed
    deposit without an order of this court.

    88. A digital copy of this award be forwarded to the parties free of
    cost.

    89. The summary of the award as per Form XV of the Annexure
    MACT No. 219/24 Digitally signed
    by POOJA
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP POOJA AGGARWAL Page No. 39 of 46
    AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. 16:39:55 +0530
    DOD: 07.04.2026
    XIII and particulars of compliance of the Provisions of the
    Scheme as per Form XVII of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules,
    1989 as amended by the Central Motor Vehicles (Fifth
    Amendment) Rules, 2022, are also annexed with this Award as
    Annexure A and B respectively, and shall form a part of this
    award.

    90. Ahlmad is directed to send the copy of the award to Ld. Judicial
    Magistrate First Class concerned and Delhi Legal Services
    Authority in view of Central Motor Vehicles (Fifth Amendment)
    Rules, 2022 [(Directions at serial nos. 39, 40 of Procedure for
    Investigation of Motor Vehicle Accidents (under Rule 150A)].

    91. Ahlmad is further directed to comply with the directions passed
    by the Hon’ble High Court of Delhi on 06.01.2021 in MAC.APP
    No. 10/2021 titled as New India Assurance Company Ltd. Vs.
    Sangeeta Vaid & Ors.
    , regarding digitization of the records.

    92. Ahlmad is directed to e-mail an authenticated copy of the award
    to the insurer as directed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India
    in WP (Civil) No. 534/2020 titled as Bajaj Allianz General
    Insurance Co. Pvt. Ltd. Vs. Union of India & Ors.
    on
    16.03.2021 and also e-mail an authenticated copy of the award
    to Branch Manager, SBI, Tis Hazari Courts for information and
    compliance.

    93. Nazir is directed to maintain the record in Form XVIII in view
    of Central Motor Vehicles (Fifth Amendment) Rules, 2022
    [(Directions at serial no. 41 of Procedure for Investigation of
    Motor Vehicle Accidents (under Rule 150A). Digitally signed
    by POOJA
    MACT No. 219/24 POOJA AGGARWAL
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP AGGARWAL Date: Page No. 40 of 46
    2026.04.07
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. 16:40:03 +0530
    DOD: 07.04.2026

    94. This file be consigned to the Record Room after necessary
    compliance and a separate file be prepared for compliance
    report and put up the same on 07.05.2026.

    Digitally signed

      Announced in the Open Court                                     POOJA
                                                                                  by POOJA
                                                                               AGGARWAL
      today i.e. on 7th April, 2026                                   AGGARWAL Date:
                                                                                  2026.04.07
                                                                                  16:40:09 +0530
    
    
                                                                   (POOJA AGGARWAL)
    

    Presiding Officer, MACT-02 (Central)
    Tis Hazari, Delhi(K)

    MACT No. 219/24 Digitally signed
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP POOJA
    by POOJA
    AGGARWAL
    Page No. 41 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. AGGARWAL Date:

    2026.04.07
    DOD: 07.04.2026 16:40:15 +0530
    ANNEXURE A

    FORM – XV, Central Motor Vehicles (Fifth Amendment) Rules,
    2022 (part of Annexure XIII. Ref: Rule 150A)

    SUMMARY OF COMPUTATION OF AWARD AMOUNT IN
    DEATH CASES

    1. Date of accident : 30.10.2023

    2. Name of the deceased : Ms. Srishti Sethi

    3. Age of the deceased : 26 years

    4. Occupation of the deceased : Job

    5. Income of the deceased : Assessed on the basis of
    salary slip

    6. Name, age and relationship of legal representative of
    deceased:-

    S. No.            Name                                       Age                   Relation
    (1)              Sangeeta Sethi                              53 Years              Mother of the
                                                                                       deceased
    (2)              Ishita Sethi                                20 Years              Sister of the
                                                                                       deceased
                                         Computation of Compensation
    
    S.No.             Heads                                      Awarded by the Claims
                                                                 Tribunal
    7.               Monthly income of the                       ₹58,511.50/- per month
                     deceased (A)
    8.               Add-Future Prospects (B)                    ₹23,404.60/- per month
    

    9. Less-Personal expenses of ₹27,305.36/- per month
    the deceased(C)

    10. Monthly loss of ₹54,610.73/-

    dependency[(A+B)-C=D]

    11. Annual loss of ₹6,55,328.80/-

    dependency (Dx12)
    MACT No. 219/24
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP POOJA
    Digitally signed by
    POOJA AGGARWAL Page No. 42 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07
    16:40:18 +0530
    DOD: 07.04.2026
    12. Multiplier(E) 17

    13. Total loss of dependency ₹1,11,40,590/-

                     (Dx12xE= F)                          (rounded off from
                                                          ₹1,11,40,589.60/-)
    14.              Medical Expenses(G)                  ₹23,30,733/-
    15.              Compensation for loss of             ₹96,800/-
                     consortium(H)
    16.              Compensation for loss of             NIL
                     love and affection (I)
    17.              Compensation for loss of             ₹20,000/-
                     estate(J)
    18.              Compensation towards                 ₹20,000/-
                     funeral expenses(K)
    19.              TOTAL                                ₹1,36,08,123/-
                     COMPENSATION
                     (F+G+H+I+J+K=L)
    20.              RATE OF INTEREST                     7.5% p.a.
                     AWARDED
    21.              Interest amount up to the            ₹20,69,569/- (rounded off)
                     date of award(M)
    22.              Total amount including               ₹1,56,77,692/- (rounded off)
                     interest(L + M)
    23.              Award amount released                Petitioner no.1: ₹32,87,976/-
                                                          Petitioner no.2: ₹5,39,716/-
    24.              Award amount kept in                 As per Award
                     FDRs
    25.              Mode of disbursement of              Mentioned in the award
                     the award amount to the
                     petitioner (s)
    26.              Next date for compliance              07.05.2026
                     of the award
    
    
    
    
    MACT No. 219/24                                                Digitally signed
                                                                   by POOJA
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP   POOJA    AGGARWAL           Page No. 43 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors.           AGGARWAL Date:
                                                                   2026.04.07
    DOD: 07.04.2026                                                16:40:22 +0530
    

    1. Prepared as per award dated 07.04.2026.

    2. A separate file was ordered to be prepared by the Nazir
    with directions to put up the same on 07.05.2026.

                                                                                             Digitally signed
                                                                              by POOJA
                                                                     POOJA    AGGARWAL
                                                                     AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07
                                                                                             16:40:27 +0530
    
                                                                   (POOJA AGGARWAL)
    

    Presiding Officer, MACT-02 (Central)
    Tis Hazari, Delhi
    07.04.2026(K)

    MACT No. 219/24 Digitally signed
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP POOJA by POOJA
    AGGARWAL
    Page No. 44 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07
    16:40:34 +0530
    DOD: 07.04.2026
    ANNEXURE B

    FORM – XVII, Central Motor Vehicles (Fifth Amendment)
    Rules, 2022 (part of Annexure XIII. Ref: Rule 150A)

    Compliance of provisions of Scheme to be mentioned in the
    Award

    1. Date of the accident 30.10.2023

    2. Date of filing of Form-I – First Accident N.A.
    Report (FAR)

    3. Date of delivery of Form-II to the N.A.
    victim(s)

    4. Date of receipt of Form-III from the N.A.
    Driver

    5. Date of receipt of Form-IV from the N.A.
    Owner

    6. Date of filing of the Form-V-Interim N.A.
    Accident Report (IAR)

    7. Date of receipt of Form-VIA and Form- N.A.
    VIB from the Victim(s)

    8. Date of filing of Form-VII – Detailed N.A.
    Accident Report (DAR)

    9. Whether there was any delay or N.A.
    deficiency on the part of the
    Investigating Officer? If so, whether any
    action/ direction warranted?

    10. Date of appointment of the Designated Not mentioned
    Officer by the Insurance Company

    11. Whether the Designated Officer of the N.A.
    Insurance Company submitted his report
    within 30 days of the DAR?

    12. Whether there was any delay or N.A.
    deficiency on the part of the Designated
    officer of the Insurance Company? If so,
    whether any action/ direction warranted?

    13. Date of response of the petitioner(s) to N.A.
    the offer of the Insurance Company.

     MACT No. 219/24
                                                                              Digitally signed by
     In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP         POOJA    POOJA AGGARWAL               Page No. 45 of 46
     Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors.                 AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07
     DOD: 07.04.2026                                                      16:40:41 +0530
     14. Date of the award                                                                  07.04.2026
    15. Whether the petitioner (s) was/were                                                            Yes
    

    directed to open savings bank account(s)
    near their place of residence?

    16. Date of order by which claimant(s) 19.05.2025
    was/were directed to open savings bank
    account(s) near his place of residence
    and produce PAN Card and Adhaar Card
    and the direction to the bank not issue
    any cheque book/debit card to the
    claimant(s) and make an endorsement to
    this effect on the passbook.

    17. Date on which the claimant(s) produced 26.02.2026
    the passbook of their savings bank
    account near the place of their residence
    along with the endorsement, PAN Card
    and Adhaar Card?

    18. Permanent Residential Address of the H.No. A-544/4,
    Claimant(s). Shastri Nagar,
    Ashok Vihar,
    Delhi-110052

    19. Whether the claimant(s) savings bank No
    account(s) is near his place of residence?

    20. Whether the claimant(s) were examined Yes
    at the time of passing of the award to
    ascertain his/their financial condition?

                                                                                    Digitally signed
                                                                           by POOJA
                                                                  POOJA    AGGARWAL
                                                                  AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07
                                                                                    16:40:47 +0530
    
                                                                   (POOJA AGGARWAL)
    

    Presiding Officer, MACT-02 (Central)
    Tis Hazari, Delhi
    07.04.2026(K)

    Digitally signed
    MACT No. 219/24 by POOJA
    POOJA
    In Respect of FIR No. 426/23 PS Noida Sector-58, UP AGGARWAL
    AGGARWAL Date: 2026.04.07 Page No. 46 of 46
    Sangeeta Sethi & Ors. v Prabhat Suri & Ors. 16:40:51 +0530
    DOD: 07.04.2026



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