Kamal Ghorui
The Delhi government has announced a new initiative to encourage people to help road accident victims, with a cash reward of Rs 25,000 for those who step forward to assist seriously injured persons. The scheme, called Rah-Veer, is part of a Central government initiative and will now be implemented in the national capital.Announcing the decision, CM Rekha Gupta said citizens who help seriously injured road accident victims will receive a cash reward of Rs 25,000 along with a certificate of appreciation. The reward amount will remain capped at Rs 25,000 even if one person helps multiple victims in the same accident.In addition to the standard reward, 10 of the most outstanding Rah-Veers selected every year will receive a special national award of Rs 1 lakh each. These awards will also be accompanied by certificates of appreciation.The Chief Minister said the scheme aims to motivate people to help accident victims quickly so that they receive medical treatment within the critical “golden hour.” According to the government, timely medical attention can significantly improve survival chances in serious road accidents.
Officials said many people hesitate to assist accident victims because they fear legal complications or involvement with police procedures. The new scheme, along with legal protections, is expected to reduce such concerns and encourage more citizens to help.The initiative follows guidelines issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, which has asked states and Union Territories to implement the programme. The scheme is aligned with the Good Samaritan Rules notified under Section 134A of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, which provides legal protection to citizens who voluntarily assist accident victims.
