THE family of an Indian national who was killed in the 2024 Masjid India sinkhole tragedy in Kuala Lumpur has been advised to file a compensation claim in court.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh said it was best for the court to determine the appropriate compensation, as this was an isolated incident.
"The death certificate has been handed to the family, and (this should bring them some relief).
"I am aware that the family wants to meet me, but they will be returning to India first.
"I sympathise with the family for what had happened.
"However, it is best to let the court decide on the matter," she said after launching a campsite at Taman Wetland Putrajaya in Precinct 13 on Friday (May 8).
On Aug 23, 2024, G. Vijaya Lakshmi, who was visiting from India, was reported missing after falling into an 8m-deep sinkhole along Jalan Masjid India.
Extensive search and rescue operations were conducted for nine days before being called off due to safety concerns for rescue personnel.
The Star had reported that the victim’s son, Surya Madhaiha, 28, received the death certificate, enabling their legal team to begin the claim process.
The family’s lawyer M Parthiben had suggested that the government refer to a Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court decision on March 24, which ordered the Kuala Lumpur mayor to pay RM824,180 in damages to the family of a victim killed by a falling tree due to maintenance negligence near the Selayang Market on March 22, 2023.
