Formulate cashless treatment scheme for road accident victims during 'golden hour'; SC tells Central govt

NEW DELHI: Terming the first hour after being injured in a road accident as critical, the Supreme Court ordered the central government to implement the 'Golden Hour' free treatment scheme. The scheme should be implemented from March 14. A bench consisting of Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih stated that the action would help save lives.

The proposal is considering the petitions related to the implementation of the project. Road accident injuries can be life-threatening if not treated properly within an hour. Treatment cannot be denied for lack of money. In most accident cases, even while providing treatment, hospitals will have concerns regarding payment to be received. The Court also stated that the Motor Vehicle Act has sufficient provisions for the insurance companies in the general insurance sector to form a treatment plan.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari had earlier said that cashless treatment would be implemented for road accident victims. The scheme provides a maximum of one and a half lakh rupees to the individual. The Supreme Court reminded that the central government is bound by law to introduce a free medical scheme. A special fund should also be formed. Section 162 of the Motor Vehicle Act provides for setting up a scheme for providing free treatment during golden hours. This provision upholds the fundamental right to life guaranteed by the Constitution. According to this, the central government should implement the scheme. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has also been directed to submit an affidavit by March 21.