It took 25 years to convict eight persons and throw them behind bars for all of two years.In India, no one’s surprised – things take this long. And when it’s for an industrial disaster the magnitude of Bhopal’s, it’s only natural, because the government of India is involved.
While the government and industry fought over who the onus lies on, how much was enough compensation and how the same would be disbursed, the victims continued to suffer and have not been duly compensated for till date. Demands for rehabilitation and medical care fell on deaf ears as did a review of their problems.
The Bhopal gas tragedy has turned out to be a study in contrast between humanity and human rights. Here’s what’s happened till date:
- June 7, 2010: The verdict: Eight persons comprising the Indian management of UCIL convicted; Warren Anderson not named.
- June 7, 2010: After more than 25 years, the judgement against the nine accused in the Bhopal gas tragedy is due.
- 2004: Supreme Court orders government to pay out rest of $ 470 million paid by Union Carbide as compensation.
- 2001: Union Carbide refuses to take responsibility for former Indian arm’s liabilities.
- 1992: Part of $ 470 million disbursed among victims. Anderson declared fugitive from law for ignoring court summons.
- 1989: Indian government and Union Carbide strike out-of-court deal, Union Carbide gives $ 470 million.
- 1985: India claims $3.3 billion from Union Carbide in an American court.
- Dec 4, 1984: A case is registered against Union Carbide. The chairman Warren Anderson is arrested but later released on bail by the Madhya Pradesh police.
- Dec 3, 1984: Union Carbide India Ltd’s (UCIL) pesticide plant in Bhopal releases Methyl isocyanate. Around 800, 000 people exposed to the gas. According to government estimates, 15000 people died. Others passed on the harmful effects of the gas, genetically.
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