In a significant development, the Indian Judicial Code (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023) has recently become a law, replacing some old provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The New Hit And Run Law in this new legislation has triggered widespread protests, particularly among truck drivers, leading to traffic jams and confrontations with the police in various states.
The contentious rule deals with ‘hit and run’ cases, where a driver involved in a collision flees the scene. Under the new law, if someone dies in a road accident and the driver absconds, they could face a hefty punishment of 10 years in prison along with a fine. This provision has caused an uproar among truck drivers across Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar.
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The protesting drivers argue that the stringent punishment under the new law creates a dilemma for them. If they run away, they face severe consequences, but if they stop, they fear potential attacks from the crowd present at the accident site. This dilemma has prompted truck drivers to stage strikes and blockades, with other vehicle operators like bus, taxi, and auto drivers also joining the opposition.
Why “New Hit And Run Law” Has Sparked Controversy?
Under the previous law, a hit and run case could result in up to two years of imprisonment, with the possibility of obtaining bail. The new law, however, drastically increases the penalties, leading to concerns among drivers about the fairness and proportionality of the punishment.
The government’s move to tighten the regulations surrounding hit and run incidents stems from alarming statistics. According to official figures, approximately 50 thousand people lose their lives each year in hit and run cases. The government believes that imposing stricter penalties will act as a deterrent and reduce the number of such incidents.
The protesting drivers highlight a crucial issue they face – the potential threat from an angry crowd at the accident site. In many cases, the crowd becomes hostile, attacking the driver who may have stopped at the scene. This fear of mob violence has fueled resistance against the new law.
It’s essential to note that the new law provides relief in certain circumstances. If the person hit by the vehicle is found to have crossed the road incorrectly or entered the vehicle’s path recklessly, the driver will face a maximum punishment of five years and a fine. However, if the collision results from the driver’s wrong actions, they could be sentenced to the maximum penalty of 10 years in jail.
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As the protests continue, discussions are ongoing about the fairness and practicality of the new law. Advocates argue that the stricter penalties are necessary to curb hit and run incidents, ultimately saving lives.
On the other hand, the protesting drivers emphasize the challenges they face in ensuring their own safety when involved in accidents. The situation calls for a careful examination of the concerns raised by the drivers and a balanced approach to address the complexities surrounding hit and run cases in India.
