The nation witnessed widespread demonstrations against the newly enacted Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), leading to a nationwide strike by transport associations and drivers. The protest, now in its second day, has caused disruptions in fuel supplies and significant traffic disturbances across various cities.
The BNS, replacing the colonial-era Indian Penal Code, has introduced stringent penalties, particularly targeting hit-and-run cases where motorists flee accident scenes without reporting to authorities. Those responsible for such incidents now face up to 10 years of imprisonment and a hefty fine of ₹7 lakh under this new law.
Maharashtra has been significantly affected, with the government urging police to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply, especially petrol, diesel, and LPG cylinders. Disruptions in dispatching LPG cylinders have been reported, with packed lorry drivers refraining from reporting to plants, causing distribution hurdles.
Protesters in Gujarat strategically placed vehicles to block highways in Kheda, Valsad, Gir Somnath, Bharuch, and Mehsana districts. This led to traffic disruptions and significant delays, including a 10-kilometer jam on the Ahmedabad-Vadodara highway near Kanera village due to burning tires on the roads.
In Rajasthan, traffic jams on major highway routes such as Dholpur-Karauli, Udaipur-Nathdwara, Sawai Madhopur-Kota Lalsot, Bhilwara-Ajmer, and Anupgarh-Ganganagar were reported. However, the Rajasthan State Roadways Transport Corporation assured the public that roadways bus operations were minimally affected and resumed after police intervention.
Videos of the protests circulated on social media, warning commuters to avoid affected routes. The disruptions in fuel supply and traffic congestion have inconvenienced daily commuters and impacted the distribution of essential petroleum products like petrol, diesel, and kerosene.
The protests by transporters have raised concerns about the stability of essential services and transportation across multiple states, prompting authorities to engage in dialogue to resolve the standoff. The impact of these demonstrations is felt deeply, raising questions about the effectiveness of the new law and its implications on everyday life and essential services.
Dhairya Saraswat