On Tuesday, the president of the All India Motor Transport Congress expressed their dissatisfaction with the hit-and-run rule, stating that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has temporarily suspended the ten-year punishment and fine that were previously implemented.
The Ministry of Home Affairs provided reassurance to the representatives of the truckers on Tuesday, stating that a decision regarding the punishment for hit-and-run cases under the new Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) will only be made after consulting with the representatives of the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC).
The home ministry, as quoted by PTI, informed the truckers representatives during the meeting that the new laws have not yet been implemented and that if they have any concerns, the government will consider them with an open mind. Additionally, Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla, on behalf of the Centre, emphasized that the new rule has not been put into effect. He further stated that a discussion with the representatives of the All India Motor Transport Congress will be held before implementing Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 106/2, and only then will a decision be made.
Protesters were encouraged to recommence their work starting from the following day. “We convened and deliberated on the stipulations outlined in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and all concerns have been successfully addressed… The legislation has not been implemented as of now, and I assure you that we will prevent its enforcement. We kindly request you to return to your vehicles and resume driving without any apprehensions,” stated Malkit Singh Bal, the chairman of the AIMTC.
Why were truck drivers protesting?
Truck drivers were protesting against the new criminal law Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), which imposes strict regulations and penalties for hit-and-run cases. They argued that the law unfairly punishes drivers, who often choose to flee minor accidents to avoid mob justice and protect their lives. Many drivers, who are daily wage laborers, expressed concerns about the hefty fines and lengthy jail time imposed by the law, urging lawmakers to consider their circumstances before passing such legislation.
The recent three-day strike has resulted in widespread disruption at petrol pumps across various regions of India. With approximately one lakh trucks responsible for transporting petrol, diesel, and LPG from oil company depots to petrol pumps and gas distribution agencies, the protest by truck drivers instilled fear among the public regarding fuel shortages. Consequently, there was a surge in “panic buying” of petrol and diesel, leading to long queues at petrol pumps.
Fortunately, there is now a significant relief as the government and transporters have reached an agreement, urging transport workers to promptly resume their duties. They also appeal to the truck drivers to resume their work, ensuring a return to normalcy in the transportation of fuel.