COURTKUTCHEHRY SPECIAL ON COURT LEGAL RECOGNIZITION OF HOMEMAKER’s “VALUABLE WORK” IN ACCIDENT COMPENSASTION CASE
Punjab & Haryana High Court Recognises Homemaker’s Work, Enhances Compensation to ₹1.18 Crore
Court says homemaker’s role equals professional services if outsourced
Insurance company ordered to pay enhanced compensation to victim’s family
By Our Legal Correspondent
New Delhi: January 20, 2026:
In a landmark judgment, the Punjab and Haryana High Court have enhanced the compensation awarded to the family of a deceased homemaker in a motor accident case from ₹58.22 lakh to ₹1.18 crore. Justice Sudeepti Sharma, while delivering the verdict, observed that the work of a housewife is invaluable and cannot be underestimated. The court emphasized that if the services performed by a homemaker were outsourced in the open market, they would command a substantial salary.
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This ruling is significant because it acknowledges the economic value of domestic work, which is often overlooked in legal and social contexts. By doubling the compensation, the court has set a precedent that strengthens the recognition of homemakers’ contributions to families and society.
Background of the Case
- The case arose from a motor accident claim filed by the family of a deceased housewife.
- Initially, the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) had awarded ₹58.22 lakh as compensation.
- The insurance company challenged the award, seeking a reduction.
- However, the High Court not only dismissed the insurer’s plea but enhanced the compensation to ₹1.18 crore, citing the multifaceted role of homemakers.
Court’s Observations
Justice Sharma made detailed remarks about the role of homemakers:
- A homemaker’s work includes meal preparation, grocery procurement, household management, childcare, elder care, financial planning, and coordination of repairs.
- These services, if outsourced, would require substantial remuneration.
- The court noted that homemakers contribute significantly to the family’s well-being and economic stability, even though their work is unpaid.
- The judgment relied on earlier Supreme Court rulings that recognized the economic value of domestic work.
Why This Judgment Matters
This ruling is groundbreaking for several reasons:
- Legal Recognition: It formally acknowledges the economic value of homemakers’ work in compensation cases.
- Gender Justice: It challenges the traditional undervaluation of women’s unpaid labour.
- Policy Implications: It may influence future compensation awards in accident cases involving homemakers.
- Social Impact: It raises awareness about the importance of domestic work in sustaining households and society.
Homemaker’s Role in Economic Terms
The court highlighted that homemakers perform tasks equivalent to multiple professions:
- Chef: Preparing meals daily for the family.
- Manager: Handling household budgets and financial planning.
- Teacher: Guiding children in education and moral values.
- Nurse/Caregiver: Taking care of elderly or sick family members.
- Logistics Coordinator: Managing supplies, repairs, and maintenance.
By recognizing these roles, the court emphasized that homemakers are the backbone of family life and deserve equal respect in legal frameworks.
Reactions to the Judgment
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- Legal Experts: Welcomed the ruling as a progressive step toward gender equality.
- Women’s Rights Groups: Applauded the recognition of unpaid domestic labour.
- Insurance Sector: Expressed concern about rising compensation liabilities but acknowledged the court’s reasoning.
- General Public: Many saw the judgment as a long-overdue acknowledgment of homemakers’ contributions.
Broader Legal Context
The judgment aligns with the Supreme Court’s earlier observations in cases like Kirti & Anr vs Oriental Insurance Company Ltd (2021), where the court recognized the economic value of homemakers’ services.
It also resonates with the Rights of Women and Equality Principles enshrined in the Constitution, reinforcing the idea that unpaid domestic work must be valued in legal and economic terms.
Conclusion
The Punjab and Haryana High Court’s decision to enhance compensation from ₹58 lakh to ₹1.18 crore for a homemaker’s death in a motor accident is a landmark ruling. It recognizes that homemakers perform essential services that would command high pay if outsourced. By acknowledging the economic value of domestic work, the court has advanced gender justice and set a precedent for future cases.
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This judgment is not just about compensation—it is about respect, recognition, and fairness for millions of homemakers whose contributions sustain families and society.
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