NEW DELHI, JANUARY 15 – In a move to encourage citizens to assist road accident victims, the Indian government has announced a substantial increase in the reward for Good Samaritans, raising the incentive from Rs 5,000 to Rs 25,000, reports TOI. The decision was made by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, who unveiled the changes during a road safety event in Nagpur attended by actor Anupam Kher.
The revised incentive is part of a broader effort to encourage bystanders to intervene during the critical “Golden Hour” following an accident, which is crucial in saving lives. The government’s initiative extends to both national and state highways, as well as urban roads, districts, and Gram Panchayats.
Gadkari emphasized that the previous reward of Rs 5,000 was insufficient considering the risks involved in assisting accident victims, including transporting them to hospitals or trauma centers. He noted that prompt action during the Golden Hour can significantly increase the chances of survival for accident victims.
The Good Samaritan scheme, introduced in October 2021, aims to cultivate a culture of helping road crash victims without the fear of legal consequences. Alongside the increase in reward, the government will also cover hospital expenses up to Rs 1.5 lakh for the first seven days of treatment for injured individuals.
Road crashes in India have been a major concern, with approximately 15.3 lakh fatalities between 2014 and 2023, according to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. In 2023 alone, the country saw 1.72 lakh road crash deaths, a 4.2% increase from 2022. The majority of casualties were motorists on two-wheelers, followed by pedestrians. The non-usage of safety equipment, such as helmets and seat belts, contributed significantly to the fatalities, with speeding being a primary factor in over 68% of deaths.
The Good Samaritan Law, instituted by the Supreme Court in 2016, offers legal protection to individuals who provide aid to road crash victims. The law shields Good Samaritans from criminal or civil liability, ensuring that they can assist without fear of legal repercussions. It also guarantees the confidentiality of their personal information, unless they choose to disclose it, and exempts them from court appearances unless they are key witnesses to the incident.
Piyush Tewari, Founder and CEO of the SaveLIFE Foundation, which filed the petition for the Good Samaritan Law, praised the government’s decision to raise the reward. He said, “The Good Samaritan Law empowers ordinary citizens to act extraordinarily in times of crisis. India must ensure that helping hands are protected and not punished.”
With road accidents continuing to be a significant public health issue in India, the government hopes that this initiative will not only save lives but also foster a sense of responsibility and compassion among citizens.
The Chenab Times News Desk