Today, January 2nd, the Supreme Court heard a case from the Delhi government asking to restart the “Farishtey Dilli Ke” scheme, which has been inactive for over a year due to unpaid bills. Justice B.R. Gavai stressed the importance of settling the ongoing disagreements between the Delhi government and the Lieutenant Governor (LG). The scheme, started in 2019, offers free treatment for road accident victims and rewards people who help them.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court heard a plea filed by the Delhi government against the Delhi Lieutenant Governor (LG) concerning the re-operationalization of the ‘Farishtey scheme‘.
The scheme, ensures free treatment for road accident victims, has reportedly been inactive for over a year due to non-payment of bills.
The matter brought before a Bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and K.V. Viswanathan.
However, Justice Viswanathan recused himself from the case, stating,
“Services issue raised here…I appeared…it bars me from hearing.”
Senior Advocate Shadan Farasat, representing the Delhi government, informed the Court that the situation had improved since the notice was issued.
He stated,
“Moneys have started coming in…Matter is done. I am not pressing anything today.”
Justice Gavai remarked,
“For once, the dispute between the Delhi government and LG should get resolved.”
Farasat acknowledged that the issue of services control remains unresolved and noted that a challenge to the Constitution Bench’s judgment, which vested services control with the LG, is still pending.
He added,
“Once that is cleared…I am withdrawing this.”
The ‘Farishtey‘ scheme was launched to provide immediate medical aid to road accident victims in Delhi, irrespective of their financial status. The alleged delay in payments and operational issues had drawn criticism, prompting the Delhi government to approach the Supreme Court. The matter’s resolution may lead to the scheme’s revival, ensuring timely assistance for accident victims.
This case highlights the ongoing tension between the Delhi government and the LG over administrative control, particularly in light of pending constitutional challenges. The issue’s outcome could have broader implications for governance in the national capital.
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The “Farishtey Dilli Ke” scheme, launched by the Delhi government in 2019, aims to save lives during emergencies, especially road accidents. This initiative encourages people to help accident victims by taking them to the nearest hospital.
The government covers the full cost of treatment for victims of road accidents, burns, or acid attacks, whether in private or government hospitals. Those who help are rewarded with Rs.2,000 and a certificate of appreciation. Helpers are also protected from police questioning or legal trouble under Good Samaritan guidelines.
The scheme’s goal is to remove the fear of helping accident victims and encourage timely assistance. It has been very successful, saving many lives and promoting a helpful attitude among citizens.