1. The learned Trial Court has passed a decree of Rs.8,00,000/- along with interest @ 6% per annum which is under challenge in his appeal by both the parties. The appellant in RFA No.299/2011 is seeking enhancement of the compensation awarded by the learned Trial Court whereas the appellant in RFA No.307/2011 is seeking reduction of the compensation amount. For the sake of convenience, the appellant in RFA No.299/2011 is referred to as “plaintiff” whereas the appellant in appeal No.307/2011 is referred to as the “defendant” as per their ranks before the learned Trial Court.

2. On 15th August, 1993, the plaintiff’s minor son, Master Merka Verma aged about six years suddenly disappeared. The plaintiff reported the matter to the Police whereupon a DD entry was registered and efforts were made to search the plaintiff’s son.

3. On 17th August, 1993, the dead body of plaintiff’s son was found floating in the water accumulated in the pit around the manhole built by the defendant. On 17th August, 1993, the Police registered FIR No.193/93 against the Executive Engineer of the re