Commercial vehicle drivers in Madhya Pradesh bring traffic to a standstill, protesting against stringent hit-and-run laws, causing concerns about fuel supply disruptions and prompting government appeals for dialogue.
Commercial vehicle drivers in parts of Madhya Pradesh halted operations on Monday to protest against a provision in the new penal law concerning hit-and-run accidents. The provision, under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), imposes penalties of up to 10 years in prison or a Rs 7 lakh fine for drivers who cause serious road accidents and flee the scene without informing authorities, as reported by PTI.
The protest led to road blockades, affecting the Mumbai-Agra National Highway and various roads in Indore. Concerns about potential fuel supply disruptions arose, prompting people to rush to petrol pumps in anticipation. Transport Minister Rao Uday Pratap Singh urged the drivers to engage in discussions with the government, emphasizing that the law's enactment doesn't imply immediate penal action.
While the drivers demanded an amendment to the new law, authorities in Bhopal and Indore assured the public that there is no shortage of diesel and petrol in their districts. The Indore district administration held a meeting with oil companies and petrol pump dealers to ensure an uninterrupted fuel supply.
Representatives of drivers and transport unions expressed their discontent with the stringent provisions, arguing that the government should focus on improving road and transport systems before introducing such laws. The protest caused disruptions, with buses parked on roads and road blockades, leading to police intervention in some instances.
In response to alleged police intimidation, a video circulated on social media, but officials clarified that the police officer's actions were not meant to scare protesters. Despite the protests, authorities across different districts emphasized the need for a smooth supply of fuel and warned of legal consequences for those obstructing traffic.
Gwalior-based associations clarified that not all tanker and truck drivers were on strike, and efforts were made to educate drivers about the applicability of the new rules. Authorities in various districts emphasized that there is no shortage of diesel and petrol, assuring the public of continued fuel availability.
Jabalpur Divisional Commissioner Abhay Verma held a meeting to ensure fuel supply, and a release highlighted a provision in the Bharatiya Naya Sahita 2023, stating that a driver involved in an accident can inform authorities from a distance, addressing concerns raised by the protesting drivers.