JUDGMENT :

A. Pasayat, J. - It is ironic in a State where power cuts and power failures are usual features, one Bhagata Mallik (hereinafter referred to as 'deceased') lost his life on account of electrocution. This application has been filed by Rajani Dei, unfortunate widow of the deceased, claiming compensation from the Orissa State Electricity Board (hereinafter referred to as 'Board').

2. Background facts, almost undisputed, are as follow:

On 21.5.1992, in the evening, the deceased was cultivating his agricultural lands at a distance of about half furlong to the southern side of Japa-Iribina main road. Suddenly an overhead electric wire snapped and came in contact with him resulting in his instantaneous death. An U.D. case was registered in Ersama Police Station. The Officer-in-charge of Ersama Police Station visited the spot, found the dead body of the deceased lying on the land and a live 11 K.V. electric line hanging over the land. Inquest could not be conducted immediately due to the dangerous position of the live wire, and on his request live line was disconnected by the officials of the Board. Thereafter inquest was held, and final report was submitted on 30.5.1992. Post-mort