• Source:JND
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An edict under new criminal laws, which have recently been given the nod by the Parliament to do away with colonial imprints, has been attracting the ire of transport unions. A nationwide chakka jam was announced after the new law suggests drivers can be jailed for up to 10 years for fleeing and not reporting a fatal accident. Earlier, there was a provision of punishment for up to two years under Section 304A of the Indian Penal Code.

Organisations, including the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC), and the Assam Drivers Union have been participating in the fervid protest. Besides, videos making the rounds across social media platforms show trucks and buses lined up on roads amid chants of ‘Driver Union Zindabad’.  

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AIMTC has also written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and HM Amit Shah seeking a review of the new law for ‘Hit and Run’ cases. “It has sent shock waves across the transport industry. While we acknowledge the importance of road safety, this draconian law threatens the very backbone of our economy and supply chain. While the intent behind introducing stringent measures to address hit-and-run incidents may be benign, there are significant lacunae in the law that require urgent reconsideration. The transport sector and truck drivers, a vital contributor to the nation’s economy, are deeply apprehensive about the potential ramifications of this legislation,” the truckers’ body said.

Private bus operators in Haryana’s Jind have also stirred a protest against the Centre’s new law. The truckers allege the new law will discourage drivers from their duty and also prevent new ones from taking up the job.

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Transporters have been asserting that no one causes accidents intentionally and they would be trashed by the mob if they do not run from the spot, adding that the draconian law be repealed.  Many said accidents are rife and truck drivers are always at the receiving end even if they haven’t committed any mistake. Hence, a rigorous imprisonment of 10 years just doesn’t add up.