Authority: Supreme Court of India (Hon'ble Mr. Justice Aravind Kumar, Hon'ble Mr. Justice Vipul M. Pancholi)

Order Date: 10-08-2026

Case Overview

  • Parties: Dr. Balram Singh (Petitioner) vs Union of India & others (Respondents); IA No.263173/2025 filed by Thamate Centre for Rural Empowerment seeking to implead the State of Karnataka.
  • Nature of Proceedings: Writ Petition (Civil) No. 324/2020; clarification/direction application (IA No.263173/2025).
  • Background: The Court previously ordered on 20‑10‑2023 that compensation be paid to families of four victims related to an incident overseen by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB). An affidavit filed by the Engineer‑in‑Chief, BWSSB, dated 27‑07‑2026, mentioned the four deaths but omitted any information on compensation paid.
  • Observations: The affidavit’s silence on compensation prompted the Court to require a definitive response from the State authority and BWSSB.
  • Directions Issued:

1. The State authority and BWSSB must file an affidavit stating whether compensation has been paid to the victims’ families, as per the 20‑10‑2023 order, within two weeks from the date of this order.

2. The applicant, Thamate Centre for Rural Empowerment (IA No.263173/2025), is permitted to implead the State of Karnataka. A notice shall be issued to the State and to its standing counsel.

3. The matter is listed for further hearing on 07‑09‑2026.

Final Outcome

  • BWSSB and the Karnataka State are mandated to submit a compensation affidavit within two weeks.
  • Notice to be issued to the State of Karnataka for impleadment under IA No.263173/2025.
  • The case will be heard again on 07 September 2026.

Topics: Compensation, Water Utilities, Court Order