26 April,2009 06:29 AM IST | | Vinod Kumar Menon
'My child died without medical aid and all I am pleading for is justice since last four years,' a grieved father Mukesh Chouhan (32) cried.
On June 3, 2005, Priyank Chouhan (8), drowned at EsselWorld's Water Kingdom. He allegedly swallowed water while playing in a wave pool at the Gorai entertainment complex. The grieved family then filed a complaint with the District Consumer Redressal Forum, Bandra citing park negligence and requested a compensation of Rs 15 lakh towards damages.
On Thursday, Mukesh, a businessman came down to Mumbai from Bhavnagar, Gujarat, because the judge, panel experts from the consumer court and the lawyers of both parties inspected the scene of incident and hospitals where Priyank was taken on that day. The topographical study of the area was important for the judge before he could pronounce the judgment. The matter is coming up on board on May 13, when the court is expected to pass an order.
The family has also started a charitable trust in Priyank's name and claims that the compensation granted from the consumer court will be used for charity.
Advocate Durgesh Singh, who represents the family, said, "Our contention is that the amusement park had no basic medical aid nor life-saving support system, which would have otherwise saved the life of the child. The argument is over and we are awaiting the court order."
Anand Lamdhade, vice president (Operations) Essel World confirmed the park visit by the judge and others.
Lamdhade said, "Since the case is subjudice, we do not want to comment on the legality of the case."
