Protection of accident witnesses

In a move to encourage the general public to lend a helping hand to accident victims, a government panel has suggested that eyewitnesses to road accidents, be spared by the police from testifying and should be not be subjected to extensive questioning. A recent survey across seven cities carried out by an NGO revealed about 88% respondents felt they would hesitate to help a road crash victim since they don’t want to face legal hassle and police questioning. The panel, consisting of representatives from home, transport and health ministries has submitted an interim report with its recommendations to the Supreme Court. The panel has submitted an interim report with its recommendations to the Supreme Court. These suggestions would finally pave the way for laying down guidelines for helping road crash victims. The panel has recommended inclusion of first-aid training at school level which the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) could incorporate in schools. The panel has also suggested ramping up ambulance density on national highways from one in every 60km to one every 30km.