Oreva Group served contempt notice in Morbi bridge case

Oreva Group, the company responsible for the Morbi bridge maintenance finally apologised unconditionally on Friday, as the high court issued a contempt notice against its managing director, Jaysukh Patel, for disobeying previous orders.

The hearing focused on victim rehabilitation, with Oreva initially proposing a compensation plan deemed insufficient by the court. The company agreed to provide Rs12,000 per month to orphans and widows, while Rs5,000 would go to employed widows. However, the court questioned the lack of permanent compensation and the absence of a plan addressing Oreva's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) obligations.

The judges pointed out that the gravity of the situation demanded a more comprehensive plan addressing the long-term needs of the victims, especially the disabled.

The court emphasised on the challenges a young woman who suffered a 40 per cent disability in the accident would face in finding employment and leading an independent life. Oreva's proposal of a flat ‘slightly less expensive’ than one in Mumbai was deemed inadequate. The court highlighted the social stigma attached to disability and stressed the need for a plan that empowers her to be selfsufficient.

The court's criticism extended to Oreva's proposals for other victims. The judges argued that offering sewing machines to widows was akin to charity, not proper rehabilitation. They questioned if the company had considered the reasons behind widows' potential hesitance towards employment and the need for creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.

The hearing concluded with the demand of a more concrete proposal from Oreva. The initial plan for victims over 60, offering only Rs5,000 per month, was also rejected, with the suggestion of Rs12,000 instead.