The Bombay High Court recently posed a poignant question: “What value does a life hold in this metropolis?” This inquiry stemmed from the heartbreaking loss of two young siblings, who drowned in a Wadala water tank on March 18. Acting on media coverage, the court independently took notice of the incident. Seeking input from the State Advocate General and BMC, it aims to address this ethical quandary. Notable advocates Sharan Jagtiani and Mayur Khandeparkar join as amicus curiae.
The tragic event unfolded after the boys, aged four and five, vanished while playing. Their lifeless bodies were discovered in the tank, sparking investigations into municipal negligence.
Allegedly citing budgetary limitations, BMC deflects responsibility for safety lapses to the garden’s caretaker. This raises doubts about the validity of budget constraints as an excuse. The court’s apprehensions extend to financial accountability and civic negligence, affecting not just BMC officers but the entire corporation’s integrity and civic obligations.
Judges highlight the absence of liability structures in municipal corporations compared to railways and BEST. Matunga police detain park administrator following the tragedy. Hiravati Enterprises, contracted for park maintenance, faces scrutiny. Patiram Vikram Yadav, park supervisor appointed by the corporation, and garden contractor in Wadala face negligence charges.
