Daijiworld Media Network- Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, Aug 20: In a significant judgment bringing relief to an Indian family, a court in Abu Dhabi has awarded a total compensation of Dh400,000 (Rs 95 lac approx.) to the family of late Musthafa Odayappurath, a 49-year-old expatriate cook from Kerala, who tragically lost his life in a road accident in July 2023.

Musthafa, hailing from Malappuram district, was struck by a speeding car while crossing Al Bateen–Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street after alighting from a bus. Surveillance footage from Falcon Eye confirmed that the mishap was a result of negligent driving, leading to his instant death at the spot.

Initially, the Abu Dhabi Criminal Court fined the driver Dh20,000 and ordered a Dh200,000 diya (blood money) payment to the victim’s family under Islamic law. However, considering the amount insufficient to support the bereaved dependents, a supplementary claim was filed by YAB Legal Services, headed by advocate Salam Pappinissery. After careful examination of documents including a legal heir certificate, breadwinner certificate, and court judgment, the court directed the insurance company to provide an additional Dh200,000 as compensation.

With this, the total relief granted to the family amounts to Dh400,000, to be shared among Musthafa’s mother, wife Hajara, son Azeeb, and daughter Habeeba.

The judgment has come as timely solace for the grieving family, with Habeeba’s wedding scheduled on September 1, 2025. Speaking with gratitude, Hajara said that while no money could ever replace their loss, the compensation would help secure her children’s education and future stability.

Musthafa, remembered as a kind-hearted man, often carried gifts for children during his visits to Kerala. On the fateful day, he was reportedly carrying a new outfit for his daughter.

The case once again highlights the UAE Federal Traffic Law, which mandates drivers to prioritise pedestrians at crossings, with strict fines and penalties for violations leading to accidents or fatalities.