A tragic road accident in the Dhaula Kuan area of Delhi on Saturday has sent shockwaves through the city. The incident resulted in the death of Navjot Singh, a Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, while his wife is in critical condition in the hospital. The accident occurred when Navjot Singh and his wife were returning home from the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara on a motorcycle. Their bike was struck by a car near Metro Pillar Number 57.
Eyewitnesses reported that a woman was driving the BMW car, and her husband was also present. Following the collision, the motorcycle first hit the divider and then collided with a bus. Both the husband and wife fell onto the road. The couple in the car reportedly called a cab and took the injured individuals to a hospital 22 km away. Unfortunately, doctors were unable to save Navjot Singh. His wife’s condition remains precarious.
In cases of such accidents, the family of the deceased can apply to the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) for a claim. There is no upper limit to the amount of compensation awarded. The tribunal determines the amount, and the insurance company makes the payment. The Ministry of Finance had issued guidelines in this regard.
To file a claim, an FIR must be lodged with the police. Evidence, such as a copy of the FIR, the death certificate, proof of age, and documents showing that the family was dependent on the deceased’s earnings, are required. An application is then submitted to the MACT in the area where the accident occurred, along with all necessary documents. The tribunal reviews the evidence and decides on the claim amount, instructing the insurance company to disburse the funds to the family.
Under the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, there is no limit to compensation for death or serious injury in third-party claims. Furthermore, the family does not need to prove that the accident was due to the fault of the vehicle owner. The occurrence of the accident and the resulting death or injury are sufficient. The insurance company of the vehicle involved in the collision is responsible for providing compensation. The insurance company pays the amount determined by the tribunal.
Compensation will not be granted if the accident was caused by the driver’s negligence, driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs, or intentional misconduct. It is essential to promptly notify the insurance company about the claim. In essence, the family can receive unlimited compensation under third-party insurance, provided the FIR, evidence, and application are submitted to the MACT on time.
The police have taken the accused woman, Gaganpreet, into custody. Gaganpreet, who was also injured, was taken by the police after being discharged from the hospital. Cases have been registered against her under sections of the BNS. She is accused of culpable homicide not amounting to murder, reckless driving, and tampering with evidence. Gaganpreet took Navjot and his wife to a hospital 22 km away, instead of a closer one, after the accident. According to media reports, the hospital is known to Gaganpreet. Police suspect that this was done to manipulate medical reports. If Gaganpreet’s car has valid insurance, it won’t affect the insurance, but if all charges are proved in court, she may get a long sentence.
Navjot Singh, a resident of Hari Nagar, Delhi, worked as a Deputy Secretary in the North Block of the Ministry of Finance. His family has questioned why he was taken to Newlife Hospital in GTB Nagar, approximately 22 kilometers away, instead of a nearby hospital. Doctors declared him dead upon arrival. His wife’s treatment is ongoing.
The police have impounded the BMW car. The crime team and forensic team have collected evidence from the scene. According to the police, Gaganpreet and her husband, residents of Gurugram, were also injured in the accident. The police are investigating based on CCTV footage and eyewitness statements. The accused couple has not yet been questioned. Police are waiting for them to recover before questioning them.