Assam Transporters to Strike Against New Hit-and-Run Law

In a significant development that could severely disrupt transportation services in the state, a joint forum of all transporters' unions in Assam has called for a 48-hour strike starting from Friday, January 6, 2023. This strike is being organized to protest against the introduction of a new penal law on hit-and-run cases, which the transporters believe is unfair and punitive towards drivers.

Representative image

Multiple Transport Associations Join Hands

The strike has garnered widespread support from various public transport associations, including buses, cabs, autos, goods carriers, and fuel tankers. These associations have united to express their dissatisfaction with the new law, which they perceive as placing undue blame on drivers for unfortunate incidents, even when they may not be entirely at fault.

Criticism of the New Law

Ramen Das, the convenor of the Assam Motor Worker Associations Joint Platform, voiced strong criticism of the new law. He emphasized that drivers do not intentionally cause fatal accidents and that, in many cases, the fault lies with others involved in mishaps. Das also highlighted the poor condition of roads, arguing that the government should focus on improving infrastructure rather than penalizing drivers.

Demand for Withdrawal of Legislation

The transporters' platform is demanding the immediate withdrawal of the new legislation on hit-and-run cases. They believe that the law is anti-driver and detrimental to vehicle owners. To press for their demand, they have announced a strike of all vehicles from 5 am on Friday to 5 am on Sunday.

Key Provisions of the New Law

The new penal law, known as the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), is set to replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Under the BNS, drivers who cause serious road accidents due to negligent driving and flee the scene without informing authorities can face severe penalties. The punishment for such offenses has been increased from two years under the IPC to up to 10 years in prison or a fine of Rs 7 lakh under the BNS.

Impact on Private Car Owners

The transporters' platform has also urged private car owners to join the strike, as the new law applies to all drivers, regardless of whether they are operating commercial vehicles or small cars. This call for solidarity aims to amplify the impact of the strike and draw attention to the concerns of all drivers.

Long Queues at Petrol Pumps

In anticipation of the strike and potential fuel shortages, long queues were observed at petrol pumps across Assam. Many people rushed to fill their vehicles' tanks, fearing disruptions in fuel supply during the strike period.

The impending strike by transporters' unions in Assam poses significant challenges to the state's transportation system. The withdrawal of commercial vehicles from the roads for 48 hours could severely affect daily commuting, logistics, and economic activities. The transporters' concerns about the new penal law on hit-and-run cases highlight the need for a balanced approach that ensures road safety without unfairly penalizing drivers.