Electrocution Compensation a Great Achievement: Justice Lakshmana Reddy

Kurnool: Lokayukta Justice P. Lakshmana Reddy, reflecting on his tenure since 2019, said that he had facilitated the recovery of approximately Rs.101 crore for the state exchequer. Speaking to the media about his term completion, he expressed concern over the lack of public awareness about Lokayukta's role in delivering prompt justice. He said that although the amendments to the Lokayukta Act in 2011 expanded its powers and jurisdiction, people are still not aware of its services.

Justice Reddy clarified that, unlike civil courts, the Lokayukta offers a forum for swift justice, with only a nominal fee required from applicants. He also highlighted a significant achievement during his tenure: securing compensation for victims of electrocution. Despite initial resistance from DISCOMs, the Lokayukta convinced the AP Electricity Regulatory Commission to pay compensation under the Electrical Accidents Regulations, 2017, providing relief to victims’ families. He stated that electrocution victims are eligible for `5 lakh compensation, which can be processed with basic documentary proof such as a postmortem report and the FIR.

Justice Reddy noted that more than 50 per cent of the cases handled by the Lokayukta relate to land disputes, which frequently affect innocent and illiterate farmers. He said the Lokayukta has launched a website to enhance accessibility-www.lokayukta.ap.gov.in- allowing citizens to lodge complaints online. During his tenure, Justice Lakshmana Reddy disposed of 7,019 complaints. With his departure, Upalokayukta P. Rajini will take up the ongoing cases. Registrar T. Venkateswara Reddy was also present during the media interaction.