The nearly 500 taxi drivers who operate in the cities of Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Mohali went on strike, claiming that the laws are too strict for “unintentional accidents.” In fact, they want the government to forgo more severe punishments.
A day after oil tanker and truck drivers called off their strike, scores of Tricity Cab Association drivers went on strike on Wednesday. Not to mention, they were protesting the new crime code’s harsher penalties for hit-and-run offenses.
Background of the Protest
The Tricity Cab Association, which represents the striking taxi drivers, emphasizes their main concern: the perceived severity of the new law’s penalties for hit-and-run offenses. Striking taxi drivers have parked their vehicles near Yadavindra Public School (YPS) Chowk in Mohali since 9 a.m., disrupting regular taxi services in the area.
What Is The Law, And What Has Changed?
The law covers hit-and-run accidents and deaths caused by rash driving, according to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Section 104 of the law, which has received the President’s assent after passing through Parliament, contains two clauses. The first clause states that causing someone’s death through a rash or negligent act that does not amount to culpable homicide is punishable by up to seven years in prison and a fine.
The second sentence states that anyone causing death through a rash or negligent act, not amounting to culpable homicide, and then fleeing the scene or failing to report the incident promptly to a Police officer or Magistrate, shall be punished with imprisonment up to ten years and fined.
President’s Perspective
The Tricity Cab Association’s President, Vikram Singh Pundir, expressed the drivers’ concern about the severe legal consequences for inadvertent collisions. Moreover, Pundir emphasized that the drivers are unwilling to bear the burden of hefty fines totaling 7 lakh or a decade of imprisonment for unintended accidents. Likewise, he urged the government to repeal the law as soon as possible, citing the gravity of the situation. He also requested written assurances that drivers would not face legal repercussions through the proper channels.
Demands and Alternative Proposals
Pundir proposed establishing a helpline for drivers to report accidents and obtain information on police stations for surrendering. This, he claims, would allow for a more practical and humane approach to dealing with such incidents, rather than imposing harsh penalties on the drivers.
Driver Perspectives
Individual cab drivers, like Vikas Kumar from Mohali, echoed concerns about the government’s decision, arguing against placing sole responsibility on drivers for fatal accidents when other factors could be involved.
Potential Escalation of Protest
The ongoing drivers’ strike may escalate into a prolonged protest if the administration doesn’t address their demands and engage in discussions with the government on their behalf. Furthermore, this collective action highlights the need for urgent dialogue among stakeholders to achieve a balanced resolution addressing road safety and taxi drivers’ concerns.
Finally, taxi drivers have organized a protest in the Tricity region, emphasizing their grievances about the perceived harshness of penalties for hit-and-run incidents. After all, the outcome of this strike could have a significant impact on the ongoing debate in the region about road safety regulations and penalties. For the latest information and fresh news about Chandigarh, you can visit our website, NewsChandigarh.
