Rajasthan High Court Takes Suo-Motu Cognizance On Rising Road Accident Deaths; Asks Centre, State To Respond On Public Safety Measures

The Rajasthan High Court has taken suo-motu cognizance of news reports highlighting increasing number of deaths in road accidents in the State, directing the Center and State departments to file a reply detailing their stand, including ways to improve road and public safety measures.

“This Court is deeply concerned over the recurring loss of human lives on the roads of Rajasthan…The alarming frequency of these fatal accidents calls for an immediate and coordinated institutional response. The Court cannot remain a passive spectator…The State Authorities and the Union of India shall also file their response as to what could be their stand to improve road and public safety matters,” the court said.

While making reference to news reports in the daily locals that highlighted nearly 100 deaths in road accidents in last 2 weeks, the division bench of Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Justice Anuroop Singhi observed that the growing insensitivity of certain segment of society towards such tragic incidents have also permeated into the functioning of regulatory authorities.

“Death is inevitable, but the misery caused by untimely death is not only an irreparable loss to the family but also a direct diminution of the nation's collective strength…It is of grave concern that, while the nation places immense value on its human resource, widespread apathy and negligence among citizens regarding public and road safety continue to magnify societal anguish…broader systemic issue that warrants judicial attention and direction.”

In this background, the Court directed replies to be filed on behalf of the Centre; Medical and Health Department and Revenue Department; Public Works Department and Local Bodies; Home and Transport Department; and the National Highway Authority of India, on the steps taken for better regulation and mechanisms to reduce pain and misery causes by such untimely deaths.

The replies shall also include the stand of the departments on multiple issues relating to road safety and public safety, including ways to improve the same.

Accordingly, while expressing condolences to the families of nearly 100 people who lost their lives in last 2 weeks, the matter is listed on November 13.

Title: In RE: In the matter of tackling the issue of 'Road and Public Safety'

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