Transport Strike Over Stringent Hit-Run Penalties Hits Fuel Supply

A 3-day nationwide strike launched on Jan 1st by truckers, bus and tanker operators against tough new fines for hit-and-run accidents has disrupted mobility and fuel availability in parts of India.

Context of the New Hit-and-Run Law

The recently introduced Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita law mandates:

  • Up to 10 years jail for drivers negligently causing serious crashes then fleeing unlabeled
  • Rs 7 lakh penalties
  • It replaces more lenient sections under the colonial-era Indian Penal Code.

Key Concerns Behind the Transport Strike

  • Industry associations allege the law is too harsh on drivers and may encourage vigilantism when taking victims for treatment.
  • They claim lack of consultations and demand its withdrawal, fearing arbitrary punishment.

The Impact Thus Far

  • Since January 1st, protestors have blocked highways and access points in states like Gujarat, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
  • This has halted movement of nearly 5 lakh vehicles in MP alone as per one truckers’ body.
  • Long queues have surfaced at fuel stations due to disrupted supply chain logistics.

Government’s Possible Options

  • The government can consider holding talks to reassure stakeholders. But withdrawing the legislation meant to improve road safety appears unlikely.
  • However, it can issue advisories against aggressive retaliation when accidents inadvertently occur.
  • It can also direct police to exercise discretion based on circumstances regarding arrests.
  • But with limited concessions forthcoming, the standoff may intensify in the short term impacting essential supplies and mobility.

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