New Delhi: In a significant ruling recognising the contribution of homemakers, the Supreme Court on Thursday observed that housewives play a vital role in building families and the nation, and held that the loss of domestic care provided by a homemaker should be valued at a minimum of ₹30,000 per month while determining compensation in motor accident cases.
A Bench comprising Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice N. Kotiswar Singh delivered the verdict while hearing an appeal related to a motor accident compensation claim. The court awarded additional compensation to a man who lost his wife in a road accident, recognising the economic value of the domestic care and support she provided to the family.
Pronouncing the judgment, Justice Karol said homemakers contribute not only to households but also to the development of society and the nation. He remarked that a homemaker is a “nation builder” whose efforts deserve proper recognition in law.
The court ruled that the loss of domestic care should be treated as a separate and compensable category of damages in motor accident claims. It clarified that compensation for the loss of a homemaker’s services would be in addition to other heads of damages already recognised under legal principles laid down by the Supreme Court in previous judgments.
The Bench observed that the contribution of a homemaker extends far beyond routine household work and includes nurturing families, supporting the upbringing of children and contributing to the overall well-being of society. Therefore, the loss suffered by a family due to the death or incapacitation of a homemaker cannot be ignored while calculating compensation.
The ruling builds upon earlier Supreme Court observations that rejected the notion that homemakers do not work. In previous judgments, the court had stated that the notional income of a homemaker should not be lower than the minimum wages prescribed for a daily wage worker.
Apart from addressing compensation, the apex court also expressed concern over delays in the disposal of motor accident claim cases. It urged authorities to ensure effective implementation of provisions under Section 169 of the Motor Vehicles Act, which provides for a summary and speedy procedure before Motor Accident Claims Tribunals.
The court further directed Chief Justices of all High Courts to monitor the progress of motor accident compensation cases and ensure timely disposal, while also ensuring that the principles laid down by the Supreme Court are followed consistently.
The judgment is being seen as a landmark recognition of the economic and social value of unpaid domestic work performed by homemakers across the country.
