Guwahati, 4th Jan: The All Assam Day-Night Super Bus Drivers’ Union has taken a significant step by announcing a 48-hour suspension of bus services across the state. This move is a direct response to the recent implementation of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023 by the Centre, specifically objecting to the stringent provisions for hit-and-run cases.
The drivers’ union is urging changes to the new law within the next two to three days. Failing this, they have threatened to extend the strike. Key concerns revolve around treating causing death by rash and negligent driving as a non-bailable offence, allowing for warrantless arrests, and the potential impact on drivers’ families if incarcerated before any court conviction.
Rupam Dutta, an adviser to the union, emphasized the demotivating effect on drivers, raising fears of exacerbating the existing driver shortage in the transport industry. The union calls for a reconsideration of the legislation, incorporating industry viewpoints to address these concerns.
The planned strike on January 5th and 6th, 2024, is a response to the government’s handling of the issue. If the union’s concerns are not addressed, the All Assam Day-Night Super Bus Drivers’ Union has threatened a permanent closure of commercial vehicles, impacting passenger and freight transportation in the entire North East region.
The situation has escalated to the point where the Union Home Secretary is scheduled to meet protesting truckers in the evening to discuss the matter. The collective unrest among transport workers indicates a critical juncture for the industry, with potential implications for the economy and daily life in Assam and the broader North East region.
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