Nationwide transportation Strike
Context:
A nationwide stir unfolded as transporters raised their voices against the proposed amendments in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), primarily focusing on Section 106. This particular section suggests a substantial escalation in penalties for hit-and-run incidents, stipulating a maximum sentence of ten years for rash and negligent driving. As a preemptive measure, the All India Motor Transport Congress declared a month-long strike, scheduled from January 1 to January 30, leading to widespread chaos and apprehension among the public.
Relevance:
GS-02 (Government scheme and policies)
Key Highlights:
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Provisions :
Despite its introduction, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), aimed at imposing stricter penalties for hit-and-run incidents, has not been put into effect.
- The BNS replaces Section 304A of the Indian Penal Code, enhancing penalties for negligence leading to death.
- Controversial Section 106: Transporters are objecting to Section 106 of the BNS, elevating the maximum punishment for rash and negligent driving to 10 years.
- Sections 106(1) and 106(2): These sections delineate penalties for hit-and-run cases, with 106(1) offering a reduced sentence for those reporting accidents.
- Aligned with Supreme Court Recommendations: The 10-year sentence aligns with the Supreme Court’s call for stringent actions against drivers fleeing accident scenes.
Concerns and Demands:
Transport operators fear the potential for unjust punishments, exposing drivers to mob violence.
- Critics argue that the law was enacted without sufficient consultation with relevant stakeholders.
- The All India Motor Transport Congress casts doubt on government assurances, foreseeing fuel shortages and driver protests.
- The strike has led to significant transportation disruptions, particularly in northern states like Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and others, as well as West Bengal, Odisha, and southern states.
- Long queues at petrol pumps indicate a strain on fuel supply, further highlighting the impact of the strike.
Meeting of Minds at the Ministry:
- In response to the escalating situation, the MHA conducted a meeting with the All India Motor Transport Congress, striving to address concerns and find common ground.
- Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla clarified that the amendments in the BNS, especially Section 106(2), had not been implemented. He urged transporters to resume operations, emphasizing that decisions regarding the application of Section 106(2) would involve consultation with the transport congress.
