Nationwide protests erupt as truck drivers oppose the new laws on hit-and-run accidents

Truckers' protests have erupted in response to a modification in the criminal laws of the IPC, which increases the prison term for hit-and-run incidents. The revised law stipulates that drivers can now face imprisonment for up to 10 years if they flee the scene and fail to report a fatal accident. This marks a significant change from the previous provision under Section 304A of the IPC (causing death by negligence), where the accused could only be jailed for a maximum of two years.

In Haryana's Jind, private bus operators have declared a strike on Monday, while auto-rickshaw operators have also joined the protests against the new law. Truckers argue that this legislative change will not only dissuade drivers from fulfilling their duties but will also deter new individuals from taking up the profession.

Similar protests unfolded in Lucknow, where bus drivers joined truckers in opposing the new law. In various parts of Madhya Pradesh, truck and tanker drivers staged protests as well. A day earlier, truckers in West Bengal's Hooghly district had blocked NH-2 in protest. 

The truckers have argued that accidents are not intentional and stated that drivers may face the risk of being attacked by a mob if they attempt to transport the injured to the hospital. They are demanding the repeal of what they call a "black law." In addition, they fear that if an accident occurs due to fog, drivers could be unfairly punished with a 10-year sentence. Drivers are worried about potential violence from locals in the aftermath of accidents, prompting them to flee without reporting incidents to authorities.