The Gujarat High Court recently addressed a matter related to the Motor Vehicles Act, emphasizing the need for accountability among officials responsible for enforcing the law. In a hearing, the Court urged higher authorities to develop a future plan to hold non-compliant officials accountable for neglecting their duties and ensure that innocent citizens are not harassed in the process. The Court stressed that authorities must take appropriate action against those who willfully fail to observe rules under any statute.
Justice Sandeep N Bhatt, presiding over a single judge bench, emphasized the importance of traffic police implementing rules on roads in a convincing manner. The Court highlighted the need for the public to have confidence that their interactions with law enforcement will be free from improper demands or harassment. Justice Bhatt called for a solution to prevent innocent citizens from being unduly harassed and for swift action against officials who commit willful defaults in observing rules under any statute.
Furthermore, Justice Bhatt emphasized that officials responsible for enforcing laws must act with integrity, diligence, and in accordance with the Motor Vehicles Act and related rules. The Court was hearing a petition related to insurance claims for passengers of over-capacity vehicles operating illegally, pointing out deficiencies within the Regional Transport Authority.
The Court acknowledged efforts by respondent authorities to address these issues but emphasized the need for continued improvement. The Court called for a report on actions taken and a future action plan to enhance the system’s functioning for the benefit of the public. The Secretary of the Home Department, the DGP of the State, and the Commissioner of Transport were tasked with monitoring and guiding the authorities to minimize accidents on highways.
The Court also highlighted the importance of holding insurance companies accountable for non-performance and proposed fastening liabilities on erring officers responsible for repeated accidents. The Court requested a future action plan to address accountability and liability of such officers to prevent future accidents in the area.
In conclusion, the Court commended the efforts of advocates representing the state authorities and expressed expectations for visible improvements in the system’s functioning. The matter is scheduled for the next hearing on September 18, with a focus on ensuring better results on the ground level. The case titled United India Insurance Co. Ltd. Versus Kevalji Lumbaji Harijan (Dabhi) & Ors. underscores the importance of enforcing laws and ensuring accountability among officials to protect the public and prevent accidents on the roads.