Punjab Newsline | Sangrur
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema and Cabinet Minister Advocate Barinder Goyal on Monday morning met the families of eight labourers killed in a horrific road accident near Alisher village in the Lehragaga area of Sangrur district. They also visited injured workers admitted to the hospital and enquired about their health and treatment.
The accident claimed the lives of eight labourers, while more than 11 others were injured. According to reports, the workers had finished their work and were sitting by the roadside to drink water and rest when a speeding car hit them.
During their visit, Cheema and Goyal interacted with the injured workers and sought details from doctors about their medical condition and ongoing treatment. They assured the affected families that the Punjab Government would provide all possible assistance during this difficult time.
The ministers said Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh each for the families of the eight deceased labourers. The government will also bear the entire cost of treatment for all those injured in the accident.
They further stated that strict legal action would be taken against the car driver responsible for the accident. If any negligence on the part of officials responsible for ensuring workers' safety comes to light, appropriate action would also be taken against them.
The Punjab Government reiterated its commitment to supporting the bereaved families and ensuring that the injured receive the best possible medical care.
Labour Unions Reject ₹2 Lakh Compensation
Meanwhile, an action committee formed by labour organisations outrightly rejected the state government's announcement of ₹2 lakh compensation for each deceased worker's family, terming the assistance inadequate.
The committee demanded appropriate compensation for the families of the deceased and a government job for one member of each affected family. It also called on the government and administration to ensure strict enforcement of safety regulations to prevent similar accidents in the future.
The labour organisations expressed anger against the government and the administration over the incident and warned that they would launch a strong protest if their demands were not fulfilled.
The committee maintained that the families who had lost their loved ones in the tragic accident deserved more substantial financial support and long-term assistance to help them cope with the loss.
