Truckers, taxi, and bus operators initiated a nationwide strike in protest against the newly-passed Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which includes provisions for a ₹7 lakh penalty and a 10-year jail term for hit-and-run cases. The All India Motor Transport Congress argues that these provisions, yet to be enforced, may lead to unwarranted harassment and should be reconsidered.
On Monday, over 70% of the estimated 1.20 lakh trucks, tempos, and containers in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) stayed off the roads, impacting the distribution of fuel and threatening the supply of fruits and vegetables. The three-day strike is anticipated to result in significant losses, with the truckers’ body estimating a financial setback of ₹120-150 crore in MMR alone for a single day.
Beyond MMR, the strike’s impact on the first day was felt in states including Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal, Rajasthan, and Bihar. Cities such as Indore, Surat, and Ambala witnessed widespread driver protests. In Punjab, approximately 7 lakh trucks ceased operations.
Transport unions in Madhya Pradesh reported that around 10,000 private buses, trucks, and taxis did not operate on Monday, affecting public transport. Long queues at fuel stations were observed in various districts as supplies dwindled throughout the day. Concerns were raised about potential fuel shortages and disruptions to the supply of essential commodities if the strike persists.
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Before the enactment of provisions under the newly-minted Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, causing death by negligence carried a 2-year penalty under section 304A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The truck owners’ association contends that, irrespective of culpability, larger vehicle drivers are typically booked in accidents. The amendment has sparked protests, with truckers declaring they will refrain from loading fuel or transporting goods until the amendment is withdrawn.
Describing the enhanced punishment as a “black law,” truckers emphasize the need for a fair legal framework. Instances of violence and road blockades were reported, with spontaneous protests causing traffic disruptions in various locations. The authorities are engaged in talks with stakeholders to find an amicable solution and assure that the law will not be immediately implemented. Despite the immediate impact not being fully apparent on the first day of the strike, concerns about fuel shortages and disruptions in essential supplies persist if the strike prolongs.
