LI Network
Published on: December 29, 2023 at 12:22 IST
The Calcutta High Court emphasized the need to recognize and remunerate homemakers for the valuable domestic work they contribute throughout the year.
In a noteworthy observation, Justice Ajay Kumar Gupta, presiding over a single-judge vacation bench, stated that homemakers should not be classified as “unemployed” as they are self-earning individuals deserving fair compensation for their daily domestic responsibilities.
Referring to a 15-year-old case, Justice Gupta highlighted the substantial contribution of homemakers, emphasizing their year-round commitment without taking any leave. He stressed that if someone were hired to perform domestic tasks, remuneration should be provided for those services, considering it as the homemakers’ financial contribution to their families.
In a specific case related to a homemaker who lost her life in a road accident in 2008, Justice Gupta addressed the issue of claiming a certain amount from an insurance company.
The family sought compensation based on the deceased woman’s specific income, but the insurance company contested the claim, arguing that a homemaker’s earnings cannot be deemed as high.
Justice Gupta, acknowledging the financial value of homemakers’ domestic work, rejected the notion of considering them unemployed. Instead, he advocated treating them as self-earners, recognizing the importance of compensating them for their dedicated efforts.
In an attempt to provide a fair compensation amount, Justice Gupta calculated an approximate figure based on the principal income of the deceased woman and the accrued interest over the last 15 years. Consequently, he fixed a total compensation amount of Rs 6,41,200 for the victim’s family.
The Court’s stance reflects a progressive perspective on acknowledging and compensating homemakers for their significant contributions to family life.
