If you fall into a hole on a footpath, especially if the injury or loss was caused by negligence by those responsible for maintaining it, you can file a case against them. 14 such cases reached the courts last year. It is called a Civil liability case. Here, a person, company, or organization is held responsible for causing harm, loss, or injury to another person. The goal is usually compensation, not punishment.
With the adoption of the Civil Liability Act in July 2023, such cases now carry more weight and legal backing.
In Punakha, a dog bite incident resulted in a case where the injured party sought compensation.
One of the more unusual cases still pending in court involves a person who’s seeking compensation after being injured by a bull in Thimphu.
Dog bites and livestock-related issues were among the key concerns discussed in the parliament.
In another case, an employee’s mistake during an engine oil change led to a costly breakdown. This case brings to light the importance of maintaining high standards of care and professionalism in workplace operations.
In a recent case, compensation is being sought for damages and injuries caused by negligent driving, where the driver failed to exercise proper caution.
A case has been filed after a worker was injured on a construction site due to an electrical incident. The worker is seeking compensation for the injuries sustained.
Another case was also initially filed regarding injuries caused by cosmetics, but it was later withdrawn.
Another ongoing case involves property damage caused by the non-maintenance of a water outlet, leading to overflow damage. The case is still pending.
BBS could not get details on the cases.
The Civil Liability Act focuses on prevention and responsibility. It sets clear rules for safety, encouraging people and businesses to avoid accidents and costly mistakes.
While 14 cases might seem small, they are a strong reminder that every action comes with responsibility. In today’s world of civil accountability, being careful in what we do is more important than ever.
Samten Dolkar
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
