Rajasthan High Court Acts on Alarming Road Safety Crisis

Nearly 100 Fatalities in Two Weeks Prompt Suo Moto PIL to Strengthen Regulatory Frameworks

In response to the alarming frequency of fatal road accidents in Rajasthan, the Rajasthan High Court has initiated a suo moto Public Interest Litigation (PIL) to address the grave issue of road and public safety. Triggered by reports of nearly 100 lives lost in just two weeks, the court emphasized the urgent need for a coordinated institutional response to safeguard the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.

The bench, comprising Dr. Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Anuroop Singhi, highlighted the broader systemic failure leading to recurring loss of lives on the state's roads. The court underscored its concern over the insensitivity and negligence pervasive among regulatory authorities and citizens alike, which exacerbates the public safety crisis.

Acknowledging that a PIL might not be the sole solution, the court called for national introspection on the issue of untimely deaths, which affect societal fabric and national strength. The judges expressed their dismay at the recurring accidents, as reported by major newspapers, and stressed the state's duty to protect citizens' lives proactively.

To address these concerns, the court directed various state and national authorities, including the Union of India, the Medical and Health Department, the Revenue Department, the Public Works Department, the Local Bodies, the Home and Transport Department, and the National Highways Authority of India, to file preliminary responses. These responses should detail measures taken to improve regulation and mechanisms to reduce road and public safety issues.

The court has appointed a team of Amicus Curiae, consisting of Mr. Manvendra Singh Bhati, Mr. Sheetal Kumbhat, Ms. Aditi Moad, Ms. Heli Pathak, and Ms. Taniya Mehta, to assist in formulating concrete suggestions for strengthening the regulatory framework. The court expects these suggestions by the next hearing on November 13, 2025.

The court expressed condolences to the families affected by these tragic incidents and reiterated its commitment to addressing the systemic issues contributing to the crisis. The registry has been directed to list this matter under the Public Interest Litigation category for the upcoming hearing.

Bottom Line:

Public Interest Litigation - Urgent need to address recurring loss of human lives due to road and public safety issues in Rajasthan - Court emphasizes on strengthening regulatory frameworks to mitigate untimely deaths and safeguard the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.

Statutory provision(s): Article 21 of the Constitution of India.

In RE : In the matter of tackling the issue of 'Road and Public Safety', (Rajasthan)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2804851