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Gopika Juneja, Lovely Professional University Unit 2: Definitions under Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1923

Unit 2: Definitions under Notes
Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1923

CONTENTS
Objectives

Introduction
2.1 Genesis of the Act
2.1.1 Object of the Act
2.1.2 Scope and Coverage

2.1.3 Calculation of Compensation
2.2 Definitions
2.2.1 Commissioner [Section 2(1)(b)]
2.2.2 Workman

2.2.3 Disablement
2.3 Major Provisions of this Act
2.4 Distribution of Compensation
2.5 Summary

2.6 Keywords
2.7 Review Questions
2.8 Further Readings

Objectives

After studying this unit, you will be able to:

 Explain the genesis of the Act
 Discuss the various definitions in Workmen Compensation Act, 1923
 Elucidate major provisions of this Act

 Explain the distribution of compensation
Introduction

This unit will help you to understand the definitions under Workmen Compensation Act, 1923.
The various sections and sub section of this unit will also summarise the major provisions of this
Act and distribution of compensation. A beginning of social security in India was made with the
passing of the Workmen’s Compensation Act in 1923. Prior to 1923, it was almost impossible for
an injured workman to recover damages or compensation for any injury sustained by him in the
‘ordinary course of his employment. Of course, there were rare occasions when the employer
was liable under the common law for his own personal negligence. The dependents of a deceased
workman could, in rare cases, claim damages under the Fatal Accidents Act, 1855; if the accident
was due to a wrongful Act, neglect or fault of the person who caused the death. In 1921, the

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