The Gujarat High Court has mandated that all court staff riding two-wheelers wear helmets, effective October 8, to enhance road safety. Non-compliance will result in denial of entry. This initiative, driven by Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal, aims to promote safety culture and address the rising issue of helmet non-use among riders.
Gujarat: In a decisive move to prioritize road safety, the Gujarat High Court has implemented a new rule requiring all court staff commuting on two-wheelers to wear helmets. This directive, issued on October 8, mandates that both riders and pillion riders must wear helmets when traveling to the court. The rule is part of the court’s ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of its officials and staff.
The High Court, in a circular signed by its Registrar General, has made it clear that any staff member failing to comply will be denied entry into the court premises.
The circular emphasized,
“The Officers and Staff members who are commuting to the High Court on two-wheeler as rider and/or pillion rider shall not be permitted to enter into the premises of the High Court from any/all of the entry gates, without wearing the Helmet,”
This safety directive came directly from Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal, who has been vocal about traffic safety concerns in Gujarat. During a recent hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning inadequate traffic management in Ahmedabad, the Chief Justice highlighted the alarming trend of two-wheeler riders disregarding helmet use, putting lives at risk. The new mandate aims to address this issue by setting an example through the court’s staff.
Ensuring Compliance and Promoting Road Safety
The circular further notes that non-compliance will be taken seriously, and staff members who fail to adhere to the directive may face administrative consequences. The move is not just about enforcing a rule but is aligned with the safety provisions outlined in the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Under the Act, wearing helmets is legally required, but many riders still flout this regulation, resulting in numerous accidents and fatalities.
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The High Court’s decision is seen as a proactive step toward improving traffic safety and reducing accidents involving two-wheelers. By enforcing helmet use among its staff, the Gujarat High Court aims to promote a culture of safety, encouraging others to follow suit.
A Broader Initiative for Safer Roads
This mandate also underscores a broader concern about the safety of two-wheeler riders in India. With the country’s increasing number of road accidents, especially involving motorcycles and scooters, such directives are essential in promoting responsible behavior on the road. The court’s decision can have a ripple effect, potentially influencing other institutions and offices to adopt similar safety measures for their employees.
In conclusion, the Gujarat High Court’s firm stand on helmet safety sets a positive example for all two-wheeler riders. By ensuring that its staff adheres to these safety measures, the court not only protects its officials but also reinforces the importance of road safety. The move is a reminder that following safety guidelines is not just a legal obligation but a moral responsibility that can save lives.
Read the Circular here