In a significant move to provide immediate relief to victims of hit-and-run accidents, Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar has launched a comprehensive action plan for the implementation of the compensation scheme for such cases across the state.
Immediate Financial Relief for Accident Victims
The newly launched action plan ensures that families of hit-and-run victims will receive compensation of ₹2 lakh within 15 days of applying for the scheme. For those seriously injured in such accidents, the compensation amount has been set at ₹50,000. This initiative comes under the revised Motor Vehicles Act of 1988, specifically Section 161, which mandates financial assistance to victims of hit-and-run cases.
During the launch event at the Punjab Bhawan, Minister Bhullar emphasized that the state government has established a dedicated portal to streamline the application and compensation process. This digital system will enable victims or their families to submit claims efficiently while ensuring transparency in the entire procedure.
Streamlined Application Process
The transport department has developed a structured framework where applicants need to submit their claims along with supporting documents to the designated Claims Enquiry Officer (CEO). The officer is required to complete the verification process and disburse the compensation within the stipulated 15-day timeframe.
Important documents required for claiming compensation include:
- First Information Report (FIR) copy
- Postmortem report in case of fatalities
- Medical report and treatment details for injury cases
- Other relevant documents supporting the claim
Minister Bhullar specifically directed police and health department officials to cooperate fully with accident victims and their families in obtaining these necessary documents without unnecessary delays.
Government's Commitment to Road Safety
The launch event saw participation from key officials including Transport Secretary Dr. Shivdular Singh Dhillon and State Transport Commissioner Dr. Amarpal Singh. Minister Bhullar highlighted that this initiative reflects the Punjab government's commitment to providing timely assistance to families affected by tragic road accidents.
"This scheme will provide crucial financial support to families who lose their breadwinners in hit-and-run cases," stated Bhullar. "We are determined to ensure that the compensation reaches the genuine claimants without bureaucratic hurdles."
The transport minister also announced that the department will conduct extensive awareness campaigns to inform the public about this compensation scheme and the application process. District transport officers have been instructed to organize workshops and coordinate with local authorities to maximize outreach.
This proactive approach by the Punjab government marks a significant step toward strengthening the social security framework for road accident victims and their families, ensuring they receive immediate financial support during their most difficult times.
