ISHTIYAQ AHMAD
Srinagar, Jan 02: A wave of concern has swept through Kashmir as people hurriedly flock to petrol pumps, fearing a potential shortage of fuel caused by ongoing protests by transport drivers. The drivers are expressing their discontent against the recent changes in hit-and-run cases to be introduced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023.
The atmosphere at petrol pumps across the region has become charged, with long queues forming as residents rush to ensure their vehicles are fueled amid growing uncertainty. The protest by transport drivers has raised apprehensions about disruptions in the regular supply and availability of fuel.
The protests stem from amendments to hit-and-run laws introduced in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, which have sparked discontent among the transport community. As a result, drivers are voicing their grievances, leading to disruptions in normal transportation services and triggering concerns among the public about potential fuel shortages.
The local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and efforts are being made to engage in dialogue with the protesting drivers.
Reports indicate a nationwide strike initiated by transport operators in protest against a new provision in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The provision mandates a ₹7 lakh penalty and a 10-year jail term for hit-and-run cases. The ongoing strike, has raised concerns about potential fuel shortages, impacting the supply of essential goods such as vegetables and fruits in the coming days.
The reports highlight that oil tanker drivers in Jammu and Kashmir have refused to load oil from depots in protest.
