Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has given a clean chit to the Public Works Department and Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Limited (IPSCDL) in the 2024 New Year’s Day accident that claimed the life of 21-year-old Ayush Halankar, son of a former CCP councillor couple.
In a detailed order, the Commission concluded that the fatal crash at Mala was solely the result of the youth’s own rash and negligent riding, and not due to any lapse by government agencies or the project contractor.
The GHRC stated that photographs from the site confirmed the presence of adequate warning signboards, barricades and safety arrangements at the sewerage work location.
The manner in which the motorcycle tore through the barricades, it observed, clearly indicated excessive speed and careless riding.
According to the report, the panel found “no material to suggest any human rights violation” by PWD, IPSCDL or the contractor. It noted that all agencies involved had complied with safety protocols and had placed the required barricades and cautionary signage.
Citing statements from the investigating police, the Commission said CCTV visuals captured Halankar riding at an extremely high speed, without a helmet, and without attempting to brake before impact. Police also informed the GHRC that the youth had been riding under the influence of alcohol.
With these findings, the Commission disposed of the suo motu proceedings and closed the case.
