SAMIR CHANDA vs MANAGING DIRECTOR, ASSAM STATE TPT.CORP.

The Supreme Court held that the High Court erred in setting aside the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal's award of Rs. 1,20,000 under the Motor Vehicles Act, as the injuries sustained by the appellant were a direct result of the bomb explosion while alighting from the bus. The Court emphasized that the driver and owner had a duty to ensure passenger safety, especially during the Assam Agitation, and the lack of police assistance constituted negligence. The Court reinstated the Tribunal's award, affirming the liability of the Respondent Corporation under Section 166 of the Motor Vehicles Act.