GUWAHATI: Motor organisations across Assam have collaboratively raised their voices in dissent against what they perceive as biased provisions within the "Hit and Run" law, a component of the "National Vehicle and Traffic Act," enacted by the central government in 2014.
Expressing concerns over the potential implications for drivers, small vehicle owners, and self-employed transport labourers, these organisations are advocating for a re-evaluation of the contentious clauses.
The central government's identification of 29 specific clauses, particularly under Section 4 of the Code, has become a focal point of contention for the motor transportation sector in Assam. The perceived biases in these clauses, especially those related to the liability of drivers and private vehicle owners in case of accidents, have sparked dissatisfaction within the community.
The recent amendment to the law, known colloquially as the "Hit and Run" law, places substantial burdens on drivers, making them liable for penalties up to ₹7 lakh or imprisonment for a period of up to 10 years, even when they might not be at fault in an accident. This has prompted motor organisations to come together in a unified forum to address their grievances and advocate for a fair reconsideration of these stringent clauses.
The collective argument from these motor organisations emphasises that the focus should be shifted towards improving road conditions, enhancing traffic management, and conducting fair investigations in the aftermath of accidents. The call for a more balanced approach stems from the belief that penalising drivers excessively is not a solution, and there should be a more equitable distribution of responsibility.
The united front of motor organisations is now urging the government to conduct a thorough review of the "Hit and Run" law, with the hope of ensuring a fair and just framework that considers the interests of drivers, small vehicle owners, and self-employed transport labourers.
