Truckers Strike Averted: Govt Assures Consultation on New Hit-and-Run Laws

The All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC), a truckers' body, announced on Tuesday that it has called off its three-day strike after receiving assurances from the government that new laws concerning hit-and-run cases will be implemented only after discussions with its members.

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Government Source Confirms Resolution

A government source confirmed that the issue has been resolved following a meeting with Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla on Tuesday evening. The source emphasized that the new provisions under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) have not yet been implemented.

AIMTC Representatives Meet Home Secretary

Representatives of the AIMTC met with the Union Home Secretary in the evening to discuss the new law on hit-and-run cases, which proposes stringent punishments, including up to 10 years in jail and a fine of Rs 7 lakh.

Background of the Strike

The meeting took place in response to a three-day strike initiated by truck, bus, and tanker operators on Monday. The strike was called in protest against the stringent jail and fine regulations under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) for hit-and-run cases.

Fuel Shortage Concerns

The strike led to fuel shortages at around 2,000 petrol pumps, primarily in western and northern India. While state-owned oil companies had anticipated the strike and topped up tanks at most petrol pumps across the country, some petrol pumps in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Punjab ran out of stock due to heavy demand.

Potential Impact on Essential Supplies

There were concerns that the three-day strike could also affect the supply of essential items such as vegetables, fruits, and milk.

Key Provisions of the New Law

Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which is set to replace the Indian Penal Code, drivers who cause serious road accidents due to negligent driving and flee without informing authorities can face up to 10 years in prison or a fine of Rs 7 lakh.

AIMTC's Response to the Meeting

Following the meeting with the Home Secretary, AIMTC representatives informed reporters that they will not allow the new laws to be implemented. AIMTC Chairman-organizing committee Bal Mankit Singh stated, "Ye kanoon abhi tak laagu nahi hai... Ham ye kanoon laagu nahi hone denge" (This law has not been implemented yet... We will not allow these laws to be implemented).

Government's Assurance

Singh also announced that the government has assured that new laws concerning hit-and-run cases will be implemented only after discussions with the AIMTC.

Alarming Rise in Road Accidents

According to a recent report by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), the number of road accidents in India increased by an alarming 12% to over 4.6 lakh in 2022, resulting in the death of 19 persons every hour.

The government's assurances and the AIMTC's decision to call off the strike have brought relief to the transportation industry and averted potential disruptions to essential supplies. However, the issue of road safety and the need for stricter regulations to prevent hit-and-run cases remain critical concerns that require comprehensive and collaborative efforts from all stakeholders.