Vadodara - Following the devastating boat capsizing incident at Harni Pond on 18th January, a public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking justice for the victims and accountability from the authorities. Utkarsh Dave, a lawyer who previously represented families in the Morbi Bridge tragedy, filed the petition on behalf of the Harni boat accident survivors.
The petition paints a grim picture of negligence leading to the deaths of 14 individuals, including 12 children. It alleges that the school principal and trustees, along with the Vadodara Collector and Metropolitan Municipality Commissioner, failed to ensure basic safety measures for the outing. Children were reportedly denied life jackets, and neither the boat driver nor the operator possessed any prior experience in boating.
Dave’s petition demands swift action against all parties responsible for the tragedy. He has requested the Supreme Court to:
- Initiate legal proceedings against the school principal, trustees, Collector, and Municipality Commissioner for their negligence.
- Place the ongoing investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the direct supervision of the Supreme Court or the High Court.
- Increase the compensation amount for the victim’s families beyond the current Rs 6 lakhs offered by the government.
The Harni boating tragedy has shaken the city of Vadodara and brought into sharp focus the need for stricter safety regulations and accountability measures. The Supreme Court’s response to the PIL will be closely watched, holding the potential to set a precedent for ensuring safety in recreational activities across India.
