Purnya Kala Devi vs State Of Assam & Anr

The Supreme Court upheld the Gauhati High Court's decision that the registered owner of the vehicle, Md. Abdul Salam, is liable to pay compensation under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, as the vehicle was not insured and was under requisition of the State Government at the time of the accident. The Court clarified that the liability to pay compensation lies with the registered owner, insurer, or driver, and not with the State Government. The appeal was dismissed, affirming the High Court's enhancement of compensation to Rs. 1,94,400/- but maintaining the absolution of the State Government from liability.