Statewide transport strike in Assam protests new hit-and-run law

The 48-hour strike initiated by the All Assam Motor Transport Association has created disruptions in state-wide communication. 

The 48-hour strike, labeled a response to the perceived injustice of the new law, is anticipated to cause disruptions in transportation services throughout Assam. The protest has garnered support from multiple associations, including buses, cabs, autos, goods carriers, and fuel tankers, all of which have united to voice their collective dissent against the stringent provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023.

Speaking to India Today NE, a protestor from the All Assam Motor Transport Association said, “We all know about the law; every one of us is aware. News about it is circulating everywhere. We have a simple message – the law shouldn't only be applicable to drivers; it should also extend to the public. If someone raises their hand, they should also face a 10-year sentence and a fine of 7 lakh rupees. The government needs to acknowledge this. If no solution is found, we will once again declare an indefinite strike as per the committee's directive.”

Another protestor stated that, “The new law is affecting us, and it's impacting our families as well. If, for any reason, we end up in jail for an incident, it will still have consequences, right? Serving a ten-year sentence is a considerable period. So, who will take care of our families during those ten years?"

As the two-day strike led by the All-Assam Motor Transport Association unfolds, the impact on commuters and the state's transportation network becomes increasingly visible. With buses, cabs, autos, and other essential services coming to a standstill, the ongoing agitation against the stringent hit-and-run law has left passengers stranded and raised concerns about the state's connectivity.