Why did truckers protest?
Section 106(2) of the Bhartiya Nyaya Samhita (BNS) outlines the new hit-and-run law, which imposes harsher penalties on drivers involved in accidents where negligent driving results in death. If the driver flees the scene without reporting the accident to the authorities, they can face a maximum sentence of 10 years in jail and a hefty fine.
Truck drivers specifically protested against the severity of the punishment, arguing that unintentional accidents can occur and that the long prison sentence could unfairly target them. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the lack of clarity on the definition of “soon after the incident,” which could lead to misinterpretations.
The Impact of the Protest
The truck driver protests garnered significant attention, highlighting the potential drawbacks of the new law. While the legislation aims to deter hit-and-run incidents and ensure drivers remain at the scene to assist those involved, the concerns raised by truckers require consideration.
Issues with the Hit and Run New Law
Several issues with the new law have come to light. One major concern is the discrepancy between the punishment outlined in the BNS and the compensation offered under the Motor Vehicles Act. The BNS allows for a fine but doesn’t specify the amount, while the Motor Vehicles Act offers victim compensation that isn’t recoverable from the driver.
Another point of contention is that the new law is not being classified as non-bailable. This means a person accused of a hit-and-run offense could potentially be released on bail, which some argue undermines the seriousness of the crime.
What’s Next for Truck Drivers?
The truck driver protests have opened a dialogue about refining the new hit-and-run law. Finding a balance between ensuring road safety and protecting responsible drivers is crucial.
Possible solutions include offering clearer definitions within the law and potentially reviewing the categorization of the offense. Additionally, exploring ways to ensure victim compensation is collected from those found guilty could be a positive step.
Conclusion
The new hit-and-run law represents a step towards safer roads. However, the concerns raised by truck drivers deserve to be addressed. By refining the legislation and ensuring clear communication, authorities can achieve better road safety without unfairly targeting responsible drivers.
