Tiruvanantpuram: The Kerala High Court hit-and-run cases ruling has introduced major changes to improve the investigation of road accidents in Kerala. The Court has directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to set up special police squads in every district to quickly trace vehicles and drivers involved in hit-and-run accidents. The Court also asked the police to use technology, improve coordination and ensure faster justice for victims.
Details of Kerala High Court Hit-and-Run Cases Ruling
The Kerala High Court has directed the Kerala Police Chief (DGP) to create dedicated investigation squads in all districts to handle hit-and-run cases. The order was passed by Justice G. Girish while hearing Geetha v. State Police Chief of Kerala & Others and connected cases.
The Court said many hit-and-run cases remain unsolved because police fail to identify the offending vehicle or driver in time.
Why Did the Kerala High Court Pass This Order
The Court observed that delays in investigation allow offenders to escape. It said every hit-and-run case needs immediate action, better coordination and faster use of technology to identify the vehicle and the driver responsible for the accident.
According to the Court, dedicated investigation teams will improve the chances of solving these cases quickly.
Kerala High Court Hit-and-Run Cases Ruling: What Will the Special Police Squads Do
The newly formed squads will:
- Trace vehicles involved in hit-and-run accidents.
- Identify and arrest offenders quickly.
- Coordinate with district police and cyber police.
- Use CCTV footage, digital evidence and modern technology.
- Speed up investigations and file reports faster.
The Court said these squads should work together with all police units across the state.
Cyber Police Must Give Top Priority
The Kerala High Court instructed the cyber police to give top priority to all requests received from the special investigation squads. The cyber police must provide technical support, digital evidence and other assistance without delay.
The Court said technology is one of the most effective tools to identify vehicles that flee accident scenes.
Every Police Officer Must Help
The Court directed all police personnel to immediately inform and assist the special squads whenever they receive information about a hit-and-run accident. This will ensure that investigations begin without delay. The Court stressed that teamwork across the police department is essential for solving such cases.
Public Can Help Police
The High Court also ordered police authorities to publish the contact details of the special squads. This will allow eyewitnesses and members of the public to quickly report information about hit-and-run accidents. The Court believes public cooperation can help identify offenders much faster.
Three Cases Transferred to Crime Branch
The Court transferred the investigation of three hit-and-run cases from Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam districts to the District Crime Branch. The investigations will be handled by officers not below the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP).
The Court also directed its registry to send copies of the judgment to the Chief Secretary of Kerala and the State Police Chief for immediate action.
Kerala High Court Asks Centre to Improve Victim Compensation
The Court also urged the Central Government to amend the Compensation to Victims of Hit and Run Motor Accidents Scheme, 2021. It said many victims suffer serious financial problems because offenders remain unidentified and compensation is often inadequate. The Court asked the Centre to implement the directions issued earlier in Rajaseekaran v. Union of India.
Court Suggests Learning from Australia and England
The High Court recommended that India study compensation systems used in Australia and England. In these countries, statutory authorities compensate victims even when the offending vehicle is unidentified or uninsured.
The Court suggested creating a dedicated compensation authority and fund in India. It said the fund could be financed through traffic fines, vehicle registration fees, permit fees or insurance premiums.
Background of the Kerala High Court Hit-and-Run Cases Ruling
The judgment was delivered in Geetha v. State Police Chief of Kerala & Others and connected cases. The petitions were filed by victims of hit-and-run accidents and the family of a deceased victim seeking effective investigation into separate accident cases in Kerala.
After reviewing the cases, the Court concluded that a stronger investigation system was urgently needed.
Why Kerala High Court Hit-and-Run Cases Ruling Is Important
The Kerala High Court’s order is expected to strengthen road accident investigations across the state. Dedicated police squads, better use of technology and improved coordination can help solve more hit-and-run cases. The Court also highlighted the need for better compensation so victims and their families receive timely financial support.
Read also: Kerala High Court Cracks Down on Cybercrime-Linked Bank Account Petitions Warns Junior Lawyers
