Rajasthan High Court Takes Suo Motu Cognizance Of Rising Road Accident Deaths, Seeks Response From State On Public Safety Measures

The Rajasthan High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of new reports suggesting increase in deaths by road accidents and ordered the Centre and State to file reply on measures to improve public safety.

The Court, in "In RE : In the matter of tackling the issue of ‘Road and Public Safety" expressed its deep concern over "alarming frequency of these fatal accidents" which it stressed calls for an immediate and coordinated institutional response.

The Division Bench of Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Justice Anuroop Singhi held,".....The right to life, sanctified under Article 21 of the Constitution of India, casts a corresponding duty upon the State to proactively safeguard this right, especially in situations where regulatory mechanisms have failed to respond with the requisite promptitude. 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. This Court was approached with a narrow grievance; however, the facts placed before it reveal a broader systemic issue that warrants judicial attention and direction."

Amicus Curiae Manvendra Singh Bhati and Additional Advocate General Rajesh Panwar made the submissions during the hearing.

The Court made it clear that it cannot remain a passive spectator when such incidents avoidable with due diligence and proper regulation continue to erode the fundamental right to life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.

It remarked that the growing insensitivity of certain segments of society towards such tragic incidents appears to have permeated even into the functioning of regulatory authorities, who are expected to remain vigilant and conscious of these grave issues.

"This Court is aware that a PIL may not be the only final solution to the aforesaid issue, but the time has come for the nation to think and ponder over the loss of untimely lives, which is causing serious damage to the fabric of society and strength of the nation", the Court said.

It emphasized the urgent need for the respondents to activate and strengthen the regulatory framework so that effective measures may be undertaken to mitigate the recurring loss of life and suffering.

"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 ordered.

The matter was adjourned to November 13, 2025.

Cause Title: In Re.: In the matter of tackling the issue of ‘Road and Public Safety

Appearances:

Amicus Curiae(s): Manvendra Singh Bhati, Sheetal Kumbhat, Aditi Moad, Heli Pathak, Taniya Mehta

Respondents- Additional Advocate General Rajesh Panwar, Advocate Ayush Gehlot, Advocate Aditi Sharma, Additional Advocate General Rajesh Panwar, Additional Advocate General B.L. Bhati, Advocate Deepak Chandak, Advocate Vivek Shrimali, Additional Solicitor General Bharat Vyas, Advocate Vinay Kothar

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