Nationwide Truck Drivers' Protest Emerges Against Stringent Hit-and-Run Law

On January 1, 2024, commercial vehicle drivers, including those operating trucks and tankers, brought several states to a standstill, protesting against a provision in the new penal law concerning hit-and-run road accident cases. The Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, set to replace the Indian Penal Code, introduced a stern measure, imposing up to a 10-year jail term and a ₹7 lakh fine on drivers responsible for a serious road accident who flee the scene without notifying the authorities.

The protest unfolded as truck drivers voiced their concerns about the potential ramifications of the new law. The provision targeting hit-and-run incidents has sparked a nationwide movement among commercial vehicle operators, leading to road

blockades and disruptions across various states.

Maharashtra: Fuel Shortage Fears Rise as 'Rasta Roko' Protests Erupt

In Maharashtra, truck drivers initiated 'rasta roko' protests, obstructing highways and causing concerns about fuel shortages. Some petrol pumps in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district have already ceased operations due to the ongoing demonstrations, reported an official from the petroleum dealers association. Road blockade protests surfaced in Solapur, Kolhapur, Nagpur, and Gondia districts, with Navi Mumbai witnessing the arrest of at least 40 truck drivers. Six individuals involved in assaulting a policeman during the protests have been identified.

Gujarat: Highways Blocked Amidst Rising Tensions

In Gujarat, protesters strategically placed blocks on highways passing through Kheda, Valsad, Gir Somnath, Bharuch, and Mehsana districts, causing disruptions in major traffic arteries. The Mehsana-Ambaji highway and Ahmedabad-Indore highway experienced temporary blockades as burning tires obstructed crucial routes. Social media circulated a video depicting a lengthy queue of parked trucks on the Ahmedabad-Vadodara highway, warning commuters about a 10-kilometer traffic jam spawned by the protests.

Rajasthan: Jams on Multiple Routes as Protests Escalate

Protests in Rajasthan resulted in traffic jams on several routes, including Dholpur-Karauli, Udaipur-Nathdwara, Sawai Madhopur-Kota Lalsot, Bhilwara-Ajmer, and Anupgarh-Ganganagar. The agitation affected the operations of the Rajasthan State Roadways Transport Corporation, causing disruptions in bus services that resumed only after police intervention.

Madhya Pradesh: Fuel Panic and Road Blockades Grip the State

In Madhya Pradesh, drivers orchestrated road blockades while long queues formed at petrol pumps due to panic over potential fuel supply disruptions. The Mumbai-Agra National Highway witnessed blockades, impeding the movement of vehicles and essential commodities. In Bhopal, drivers staged protests at Lalghati, causing disruptions to city buses and general traffic. Additionally, protesters congregated at Board Office Square in MP Nagar.

The nationwide protests by truck drivers reflect their collective apprehension regarding the stringent penalties outlined in the new hit-and-run law. The provision, seeking to impose severe consequences on drivers involved in accidents who flee the scene, has triggered a wave of discontent within the commercial vehicle community.

As the demonstrations continue, the impact on essential services, transportation, and fuel supply remains a growing concern. The truck drivers' protest against the new law emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that considers the challenges faced by drivers while addressing road safety concerns. The unfolding situation underscores the importance of constructive dialogue between the concerned authorities and the protesting truck drivers to reach a resolution that ensures both road safety and fair treatment for drivers.