Truck owners in Karnataka to launch protest starting Jan 17; supply chain for various commodities expected to be impacted
After protests in northern states, now it seems it’s the turn of Karnataka, as truckers have called for an indefinite stir from January 17. If the protests continue as per the plan, then the supply chain is sure to be disrupted, thereby inflating the prices of many commodities.
Naveen Reddy, the President of the Federation of Karnataka Lorry Owners Associations, said, “We are launching an indefinite stir from January 17. We have taken a decision to spare essential commodities like milk, petrol, diesel, vegetables, water, medicines, and ambulances. We have requested that they adhere to their regular schedules.” However, he noted that all other goods vehicles supplying items for industries, commercial goods transport, containers, sand, and construction equipment will be impacted.
Previously, numerous northern states witnessed demonstrations opposing the Bharatiya Nyay Samhita (BNS) and its modifications to penalties. According to the BNS, individuals responsible for severe road accidents due to negligent driving who then escape without notifying authorities could now potentially receive a 10-year prison sentence or a fine of INR 7 lakh.
This represents a notable increase from the prior penalty of two years under the IPC. Transport associations argue that the new legislation will dissuade drivers and subject them to unfair consequences. Nevertheless, the protests were called off after the central government assured that the new law would be enforced after thorough deliberation.
Speaking of when the protest has been called elsewhere, why are transporters protesting now here? Reddy said, “I want to ask who has publicly announced reviewing the laws. I want to know whether Union Home Minister Amit Shah has announced it. There are reported cases from Telangana and Bihar. I want to ask why they introduced the law without public consultation. In every hit-and-run case, the cases are filed only on huge vehicles, while small vehicles are let off. What should a truck driver do? How will he know who is coming behind and why they are overtaking from the left side?”
In most villages, many are not following traffic rules. In a democratic country, public consultation is a must. Hence, drivers will continue with the protest till an official announcement is made, he added.
