Bengaluru: The Federation of Karnataka Lorry Owners’ Association has announced an indefinite strike starting January 17 in protest against severe jail sentences and fines proposed for hit-and-run cases under the new Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS).
The decision comes after a meeting where members expressed concerns about the proposed penalties, including a 10-year imprisonment term, for drivers found guilty in hit-and-run incidents. C Naveen Reddy, president of the association, highlighted the discontent among lorry and truck drivers nationwide regarding the stringent fines outlined in the criminal law.
A previous strike, called by the truck drivers’ association on January 2, was temporarily called off following discussions with union home ministry officials in New Delhi. However, with the proposed penalties not being officially withdrawn despite government claims of keeping them in abeyance, the lorry owners’ association has decided to proceed with an indefinite strike from January 17.
Reddy expressed frustration with the government’s unilateral decision without consulting lorry owners and urged for the relaxation of the proposed laws, considering the interests of the lorry industry and drivers.
The impending strike raises concerns about the already existing nationwide shortage of drivers for lorries, trucks, and commercial vehicles. Stakeholders are watching the developments closely as the lorry owners’ association seeks to address the potential adverse impacts of the proposed penalties.
