Shock gripped a West Bengal SIR tribunal when an elderly woman died of cardiac arrest during an ongoing hearing. The 68-year-old, Lakshmi Devi, became the latest victim of what many call a ‘forgotten crisis’ in administrative justice.
Arriving early for her land rights case, Devi waited patiently before her turn. But as she stood to speak, severe chest pains struck, leading to her collapse. The room echoed with panic as people dialed for help; sadly, it was too late.
Reports indicate Devi had underlying health conditions, but no one anticipated such a sudden tragedy. This has ignited debates on making tribunals more senior-friendly, with suggestions for virtual hearings and health screenings.
State human rights groups have stepped in, demanding accountability from the SIR setup. Officials are reviewing protocols, but critics argue it’s reactive rather than proactive.
Lakshmi Devi’s family mourns deeply, her death amplifying the struggles of countless elders navigating India’s complex legal landscape. This case could catalyze much-needed changes for safer public forums.