The beginning of the New Year witnessed widespread chaos across the country as truck drivers initiated a three-day protest against the recently implemented hit-and-run law. Highways and key roads were blocked, resulting in massive traffic jams and long queues at petrol pumps. Citizens, fearing a fuel shortage, rushed to fill up their tanks.
Protest Against Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
The nationwide protest is in response to the new hit-and-run law introduced in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the criminal code replacing the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The law significantly increases penalties in road accident cases, with the maximum jail term now extended to 10 years, up from the previous 2 years under the Indian Penal Code.
Controversial Penalties and Dissent
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita stipulates that causing death by a rash or negligent act not amounting to culpable homicide can lead to imprisonment of up to seven years and a fine. If the offender fails to report the incident immediately, the imprisonment term can extend to ten years, along with a hefty fine of ₹7 lakh. Truck drivers argue that the penalties are draconian and disproportionately target larger vehicles.
Concerns Over Impact on Drivers
Protesting truck drivers express concern about their ability to pay the substantial fine amounts, given their profession. The fear of potential mob violence against drivers transporting the injured to hospitals adds to their grievances.
Diverse Participation in the Strike
The protests have gained momentum with participation from various drivers, including truckers, private bus drivers, and even government bus drivers in some cases. Social media reports suggest that cab drivers have also joined the protest in certain states.
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