Private bus operators go on 3-day strike, demand rollback of ‘Hit and Run’ law

In protest against the ‘Hit and Run’ law of the Central Government, private bus operators commenced a three-day strike on Monday, the first day of the new year. During this demonstration, they rallied at the new bus stand, expressing outrage against the government’s policies. They have registered their opposition to the newly enacted law, asserting that the government has made a grave error. They demand an immediate withdrawal of this legislation by the Central Government.

Private bus operators strongly believe that this new law is fundamentally flawed and urge its swift revocation. They assert that after the three-day strike, further decisions will be made concerning their course of action. Moreover, they challenge government officials and other leaders to personally experience the challenges faced by drivers themselves.

Several private bus drivers from Haryana Roadways have been urged to support this strike. Prominent figures such as Rohitash, Balwinder Singh, Rahul, Roshan Lal Sharma, Ajay Chahal, and Jasbir Singh have voiced their commitment to continually oppose this government law.

The agitation against the law was not confined to mere protests. In a demand to revoke the new law, transporters caused traffic congestion in front of the Pundri-Rajound Road near the government school. Satish Pai, Sukhdev Pai, Deepak Pai, Naresh Pai, Kuldeep Pai, and Satbir Pai were present at this particular event. The dissent against the new law has also been witnessed in Hisar’s Hansi, where 192 private buses refrained from operating on their respective routes. Drivers staged a sit-in protest at the bus stand premises, vowing to continue their opposition until the law is withdrawn.

These drivers highlighted concerns regarding the hefty penalties and severe punishments imposed on drivers in case of road accidents. They emphasized that sustaining their families would become an arduous task if such laws persist. This demonstration follows a recent protest by truck drivers against the new legislation. The bus operators voiced their distress, stating that this law negatively affects drivers’ livelihoods.