Casual worker not entitled to compensation: HC

The Delhi High Court has said a casual worker is not entitled to claim compensation from the principal employer in case he suffers an accident while performing the work under the direction and supervision of a contractor.

Justice V B Gupta said those availing the services of such casual employees through a contractor for their trade or business do not have to pay compensation in case any injury is caused to such workers in the course of work.The court passed the order on an appeal filed by M/s Bhasin petrol pump challenging the order of Workmen's Compensation Commissioner awarding damages to a worker, Md Shoibuddin Khan on the ground that he was an "employee" under the meaning of the Workmen's Compensation Act