The initiative aims to eliminate fears of legal complications, as many hesitate to help accident victims due to concerns about police involvement and court proceedings. The government and police have reassured the public that rescuing accident victims will not lead to legal trouble, and instead, Good Samaritans will be rewarded for their life-saving actions.
What is the Good Samaritan Scheme?
Medical experts emphasize that many accident fatalities occur due to delayed medical assistance. Quick intervention and immediate transportation to a hospital can significantly increase survival rates.
Recognizing this, the central government launched the Good Samaritan Scheme four years ago, initially offering a reward of ₹5,000 to individuals who transported accident victims to hospitals.
Recent Enhancements to the Scheme
- The reward has now been increased to ₹25,000 per rescue.
- Individuals who save multiple victims can earn up to ₹1 lakh under the scheme.
- Legal immunity is granted to those who assist accident victims, ensuring they do not face harassment by authorities.
How to Claim the Reward
To receive the cash incentive, rescuers must follow these steps:
-
Take the injured person to a hospital as soon as possible.
-
Inform the local police about the incident.
-
Obtain an official letter from the police confirming the details of the accident and assistance provided.
-
Submit the following documents to the local Mandal Tehsildar:
- Police verification letter
- Aadhaar card
- Bank account details
- Hospital certification confirming the rescue
-
A committee comprising officials from the transport, revenue, police, national highways, and medical departments will review the case and determine the eligibility for the reward.
Encouraging Public Participation
With road accidents claiming thousands of lives annually, the Good Samaritan Scheme seeks to promote immediate assistance by removing legal fears and offering financial incentives.
Authorities urge citizens to act swiftly in such situations, ensuring that precious lives are not lost due to inaction.
