Karnataka truck drivers on indefinite strike to protest new hit-and-run law

The Federation of Karnataka Lorry Owners' Association called for an indefinite strike from January 17, opposing stringent jail and fine regulations for hit-and-run cases under the new Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS).

Truck owners in Karnataka have begun an indefinite strike in protest against stringent jail and fine regulations for hit-and-run cases under the new criminal law, Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS).

The Federation of Karnataka Lorry Owners' Association called the strike from January 17. Protesters also brought trucks and tempos to a halt in places like Nagarabhavi and Nayandahalli on Thursday.

C Naveen Reddy, president of the Federation of Karnataka Lorry Owners' Association, said they received a positive response from truck owners and drivers in Karnataka. "In fact, many drivers from cities like Hyderabad have also contacted us, expressing their desire to join the strike."

He said that they have submitted representations to both the Union and state governments against the new hit-and-run law. "We will continue the strike until we receive assurance from them," he said.

"Lorry and truck drivers across the country are worried about the proposal to impose significant fines, including a 10-year imprisonment for drivers found guilty in hit-and-run cases. The stringent laws suggested in the Act should be reconsidered, taking into account the interests of the lorry industry and drivers," he added.

B Channa Reddy, honorary president of the Federation of Karnataka Lorry Owners' Association, said: "Around 80% of lorries stayed off the roads, extending their support to the cause."

Petroleum dealers in the state said that fuel supply has not been affected so far. "The supply is normal for now, as some truck owners extended their support and joined the strike only for a day," said KM Basave Gowda, president of the Akhila Karnataka Petroleum Dealers' Association.

However, the All-India Motor Transport Congress is not participating in the strike. On January 2, a strike called by the truck drivers' association was called off after a meeting between the representatives of the association and officials from the Union home ministry in New Delhi.

Also, read: Truck drivers' association ends strike after talks with Home Ministry