SHAKUNTALA DEVI vs DELHI ELECTRIC SUPPLY UNDERTAKING

The Supreme Court, while adjudicating a petition under Article 32 of the Constitution, held that the death of Ram Naresh Yadav due to electrocution was a result of criminal negligence by the Delhi Electric Supply Undertaking, violating the petitioner's rights under Article 21. The Court invoked its powers under Article 142 to grant appropriate relief, recognizing the dire circumstances faced by the petitioner, a widow with three minor children. The Court directed the respondents to award suitable compensation to the petitioner, emphasizing the need for accountability in public service.