In a significant development, based on the recommendations of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the Government has decided to pay as ex-gratia amount of Rs.50000 to the next of the kin who died due to COVID virus infection. It is worth noting that even those who were involved in the COVID -19 relief operation and the preparedness related thereto but died due to the virus, too stand benefitted . That the decision shall apply in respect of both the first and the second wave of the pandemic and even in respect of future deaths, if any due to the virus, makes it broad based in implementation.
We also know there being scope for insurance intervention too in respect of the subject matter but since the same was going to take some time, the cases of payment of ex-gratia must as promised be all settled within 30 days. Not only the ex-gratia payment but more needs to be done especially for those whose lone bread earner succumbed to the virus. Orphaned children though covered under some schemes still need to be helped in whatever way possible. We further feel that the State Disaster Response Fund from which the ex-gratia payments are to be made, must be adequately funded by contributions from various commercial institutions. Since the pandemic has somewhat subsided in India unlike in most other countries, we cannot be complacent but be in all readiness to help those who become worst victims of it. The Government, however, must live up to its assurances given to the Supreme Court about the payment of the ex-gratia to the kin of those who died due to the virus paid in a speedy manner but the claims submitted by the beneficiaries must be complete in all respects as well.
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