45-paise travel insurance turns ₹10 lakh lifeline for family:Five years after train accident death, claim settled

In a remarkable case of travel insurance proving its worth, the family of Ravi Kumar Sharma from Morena received Rs 10 lakh five years after his tragic death in a train accident. On 19 October 2020, Sharma had booked an online ticket from Morena to Nizamuddin on the Bhopal Express. Along with his ticket, he opted for a nominal travel insurance of just 45 paise. Tragically, on 21 October 2020 at around 3:20 a.m., heavy rain and a power outage at Morena Railway Station, coupled with a non-functional coach display board, contributed to the fatal accident. Sharma slipped while trying to board coach D-1, falling between the platform and train. He was rushed to a hospital via 108 ambulance but was declared dead on arrival. Struggle for insurance claim Ravi Kumar Sharma’s wife, Manisha Sharma, immediately informed IRCTC about the incident. Following instructions, she filed a claim with Bajaj Allianz General Insurance in August 2021, submitting all relevant documents. However, the insurance company repeatedly delayed payment, citing incomplete documentation. Even after resubmitting documents in January 2022, no action was taken. Frustrated, Manisha approached the Bhopal District Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission in September 2022, claiming the insurance company’s refusal to pay constituted a deficiency in service and unfair trade practice. Consumer commission orders payment After thorough hearings, the Commission directed the insurance company to pay Rs 10 lakh with 7% annual interest from the date of filing the complaint. Additionally, it ordered a separate compensation of Rs 10,000 for mental, physical, and economic distress and Rs 5,000 for legal expenses, to be paid within two months. Non-compliance would attract 9% interest. The Commission also noted that all necessary documents—including FIR, post-mortem report, and death certificate—had already been submitted, and IRCTC’s role was limited to ticket booking. Responsibility for insurance payout rested entirely with the insurance provider. Legal expert highlights the lesson Advocate Arun Singh Rana, who represented the family, emphasized the importance of travel insurance. “Even a one-click insurance option can prevent families from going through years of legal struggle. The insurance company had a duty to settle the claim promptly,” he said. Widow speaks out Manisha Sharma expressed that her life has completely changed since her husband’s death. “I am raising two daughters, a son, and caring for in-laws while doing sewing work to manage the household,” she said. She added, “The railway’s negligence caused this tragedy. The Commission’s decision has given me hope for justice.” Key Takeaways for travelers This case underlines the importance of opting for travel insurance when booking train tickets. A small premium of just 35–45 paise can secure significant financial protection in the event of accidents. Coverage Benefits Include: Steps to file a claim