Workers' federation calls for higher compensation for building collapse victims

Bengaluru: Outraged by the death of eight construction workers in the Babusapalya building collapse on Tuesday, the Karnataka State Building and Other Construction Workers' Federation has urged the government to provide Rs 25 lakh compensation for each family of the deceased and Rs 10 lakh for the seriously injured.

On Thursday, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced a compensation package of Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased — Rs 3 lakh from the BBMP and Rs 2 lakh from the Labour Department (Karnataka Building and Other Construction Workers' Board).

In addition, on Wednesday night, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.

The federation’s general secretary, Mahantesh K, criticised the compensation as inadequate.

"All the deceased were young. For the injured, it will be impossible to work for the next six to seven months. The compensation amount should be increased," he said.

Speaking to DH, Labour Minister Santosh Lad agreed with the federation’s demand for higher compensation.

“I support their stance. These youths were the primary breadwinners for their families. We will seriously consider the suggestions from trade unions, though we have certain limitations,” Lad stated.

The minister also assured that the department would assist the victims of the accident. "We will provide compensation on a special basis, even if they are not registered," he added.