In the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), over 70% of around 1.20 lakh trucks, tempos, and containers stayed off the roads on Monday as truckers, taxi, and bus operators initiated a nationwide strike. The protest opposes the newly-passed Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which imposes a ₹7 lakh penalty and a 10-year jail term for hit-and-run cases. The All India Motor Transport Congress claims these provisions, yet to be enforced, can lead to undue harassment and demands their recall. The three-day strike is expected to impact fuel distribution and disrupt fruits and vegetables supplies. Losses from one day’s strike in MMR alone are estimated at ₹120-150 crore.
The impact extends beyond MMR, affecting Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal, Rajasthan, and Bihar. In Punjab, approximately 7 lakh trucks halted operations, while transport unions in Madhya Pradesh reported 10,000 private buses, trucks, and taxis staying off the road, impacting public transport. Protests were reported in cities like Indore, Surat, and Ambala. The strike has potential repercussions for fuel supply and essential commodities, causing concerns of fuel shortages and disruptions in the coming days.
The strike stems from opposition to the enhanced punishment provisions for hit-and-run cases, with truckers stating they will not load fuel or transport goods until the amendment is withdrawn. The All J&K petrol tankers owners’ association and J&K fuel station owners’ association expressed solidarity, emphasizing the adverse impact on supplies. Some instances of violence and roadblocks were reported in MMR, including a raasta roko near Chinchoti on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway.
Truckers argue that the law is biased, typically holding the driver of the larger vehicle responsible in accidents. The protest is led by drivers themselves, not truck owners’ associations. While the immediate impact on day 1 was partially felt, concerns are rising about potential shortages if the strike persists. Discussions with the Centre are ongoing, and stakeholders hope for an amicable resolution, emphasizing the importance of considering multiple perspectives in drafting such laws.