Long queues were witnessed at petrol pumps in several parts of the country following a protest by truck drivers against a provision in the new penal law regarding hit-and-run accident cases involving motorists.
There were reports of panic buying from various parts of the country. In Surat, Gujarat, protests even turned violent.
Yesterday, about 2,000 petrol pumps, mostly in western and northern India, ran out of fuel following the strike by truck drivers.
Some truck, bus, and tanker operators began a three-day strike on Monday against the stringent jail and fine regulations under the new criminal law, Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), for hit-and-run cases. The protestors have blockaded roads and highways across states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh. Truckers said most truck drivers choose to run away even in minor accidents, as they otherwise will have to face mob justice and the risk of life. While the mobs typically go unpunished, imposing stringent punishment on drivers was deemed unfair.
The truckers, however, have now called off their strike following assurances from the Central government. In a late-night meeting on Tuesday, the Union Home Secretary reportedly assured the All India Motor Transport Association (AIMTC) that the law will only be implemented after consultation with the group.
Meanwhile, amid visuals of long queues that, in some areas, spilled into roads as well, electric vehicle owners took to social media to rub more salt into the wounds of their ICE counterparts.
“Petrol isn’t available in petrol pumps due to the truck driver strike. Now, I am reminded why having an EV might be a good idea,” tweeted one user.
