Congress MP Rahul Gandhi criticised the Narendra Modi government on Tuesday for the ongoing strike by transporters over the new hit-and-run law.
“While more than 150 MPs were suspended, Shahenshah in Parliament enacted a law against drivers, the backbone of the Indian economy, which could have fatal consequences,” Rahul wrote on X.
“Throwing this hard-working class with limited earnings into the harsh legal furnace can badly affect their lives. And also, misuse of this law can lead to 'recovery mechanisms' along with organized corruption. The government which runs democracy with the whip has forgotten the difference between 'emperor's orders' and 'justice',” He added.
Why are truck drivers on strike?
Truck drivers are on strike because of a new law called Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS). This law has caused widespread protests, especially in states like Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. Truckers in several states launched a three-day protest against the "stringent provision" on Monday, sparking fear over fuel supply getting affected.
According to the new law, drivers involved in hit-and-run incidents could face severe penalties like 10 years in jail or a fine of Rs 7 lakh. Before this law, if someone was involved in a hit-and-run, they would be prosecuted under Section 304A of the Indian Penal Code. Under that section, if identified and convicted, they could face a maximum of two years in jail.
Transporters argue that this new law might be used unfairly against them, even when they are not at fault in accidents.
