Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Aug 26: Twenty-eight years after a tragic incident claimed the life of an eight-year-old boy in Kandivli, a Mumbai civil court has ordered quarry owner Chandar Gadwal to pay Rs 6.5 lac compensation to the child’s mother. The relief includes Rs 2 lac with 8% annual interest since 1998.

The court held Gadwal guilty of negligence, observing that he illegally carried out quarry blasting close to Anudatt Vidyalaya without informing authorities. Judge Subhash K Karhale noted, “There is no evidence to hold any negligence on the part of defendant nos. 2 and 3 (school and state chief secretary). Defendant no. 1 (Gadwal) has not contested the matter.”

The incident occurred on February 19, 1997, when Ajay, a Class 2 student, was in his classroom. Around 4 pm, Gadwal set off blasts at a nearby plot, sending a heavy stone crashing through the tin roof of the classroom. The stone struck Ajay on the head, causing severe injuries. He was rushed to Bhagwati Hospital and later shifted to Nair Hospital, but succumbed to his injuries on April 16, 1997.

Ajay’s mother, Chintadevi Arjundas, filed a civil suit in 1998 seeking Rs 10 lakh with 18% interest, citing loss of life, medical expenses, and her son’s bright academic future. The court verified bills and receipts before awarding compensation.

While the school headmaster denied negligence and claimed no knowledge of the blasting activity, the court concluded Gadwal’s actions directly led to the child’s death.