Unsecured Air Conditioners, Flowerpots May Land You In Jail! Delhi Tragedy Raises Alarm - Know What's The Law
A tragic incident was reported in Karol Bagh, Delhi, where a window air conditioner dropped from a building and killed a man. The disturbing video of the accident is fast going viral on social media, capturing the chilling moment when the air conditioner hit the victim. This tragic incident brings to light the dire requirement of appropriate safety measures about latching things like air conditioners and flowerpots.
Possible Legal Consequences of Negligence
The Karol Bagh incident highlights the risks associated with unsecured objects. Following the tragedy, authorities filed a case under Section 125A/106 BNS of the IPC. This section addresses deaths caused by negligence, including penalties of fines and imprisonment. It covers various forms of negligence, from medical errors to careless driving, and can result in up to five years in prison if the negligence leads to harm or death.
Also Read: Heavy Rainfall Lashes Parts Of Delhi-NCR, More Showers Likely; Check IMD Alert For THESE States
Section 125(A)/106 BNS Explained
According to Section 125-A, Section 106 lays down the punishment for whoever's rash or negligent act causes the death of a person. This legal provision does not define such acts as manslaughter but it does provide severe penalties, which include imprisonment and fines. Thus, falling off a flowerpot from your balcony or an accident due to an air conditioner could land you in trouble. If an air conditioner goes beyond your boundary wall, it could also lead to another criminal offense of encroachment.
Safety Precautions: What You Need to Do
To prevent flowerpots and air conditioners from falling in the future, they should be fastened safely. If you have flowerpots on your balcony, it is important to place them safely or, if possible, transfer them down to the ground. If a railing exists or is installed on your balcony, then it will definitely prevent the flowerpots from falling because of wind or some accidental push.
