Hit-And-Run Law: Truck and Bus drivers are currently on a widespread strike against the amendments in the Hit-and-Run law, which has increased the penalties for negligence. Under the new law, drivers could face imprisonment for up to 10 years and a fine of ₹7 lakh for fleeing the scene or failing to report a fatal accident.
Previously, under Section 304A of the IPC (causing death by negligence), the accused could only be sentenced to a maximum of two years in jail.
This strike has led to significant disruptions in various sectors, including supply chains, schools, petrol pumps, and more.
The All India Motor Transport Congress (AITMC) is leading this strike, expressing the view that while the government's intention behind the new laws is commendable, but several flaws need reconsideration.
The strike by bus and truck drivers has been unfolding across various states in the country over the past three days. Protests and strikes are taking place in states including Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, and Punjab.
In several instances, demonstrations have included symbolic acts such as burning tires and blocking roads with parked vehicles.
The truck drivers' strike is having a significant impact in Maharashtra, where fuel tankers are struggling to reach petrol and diesel pumps.
Fears of fuel shortages are triggering panic buying on a large scale, resulting in long queues at petrol pumps.
Due to the high number of vehicles waiting for refuelling, it is taking nearly an hour to fill up with petrol or diesel.
Several petrol pumps in Thane and its vicinity have either shut down or are left with minimal fuel supplies due to the ongoing strike. T
he situation is causing inconvenience to the residents, who are now grappling with the potential impact of fuel shortages on their daily lives.
In Madhya Pradesh, the ongoing strike by truck and bus drivers against the Hit and Run law has led to a halt in the transportation system. Wheels of buses and trucks have come to a standstill in various regions, including Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, and Gwalior.
The strike has not only affected the movement of vehicles but has also disrupted the supply of essential commodities such as milk and vegetables.
Due to the strike, school vans and buses being unavailable, many schools in Bhopal have declared a two-day closure. The strike, which shows no signs of ending soon, coupled with concerns about its prolonged impact and the potential depletion of fuel supplies, has led people to rush to petrol pumps to refill their vehicles.
