Odisha Truckers To Join Nationwide Protest Against Hit-and-Run Law Tomorrow

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangha declared on Thursday its participation in the nationwide ‘Quit Steering Wheel’ protest organized by truck drivers against the newly introduced ‘hit-and-run’ law by the Centre. While the nationwide strike commenced today, members of the Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangh will join in a couple of days after handing over their vehicles to owners.

President Prashant Menduli stated that they initially intended to join the strike today but decided to delay it by a day for the smooth transfer of vehicles. The Mahasangha is set to join the protest tomorrow.

The new law stipulates a 10-year imprisonment and a Rs 7 lakh fine for hit-and-run offenders, a provision deemed ‘unjustified’ by the drivers’ association. They argue that drivers, earning meagre incomes while spending their lives on the road, would struggle to pay such a hefty fine. Moreover, concerns were raised about the impact on the well-being of their families if drivers were incarcerated.

Members of the Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangh have been advocating for a welfare fund, death benefits, social security, pension after 60 years, parking facilities, and wayside amenities since 2023. However, the government has yet to meet these demands. A previous indefinite strike in March 2023 was called off after three days with assurances from the state government to consider their demands.