Truckers call off stir after govt says new law not in force, final decision after talks

Amid country-wide protests over new law on hit-and-run cases, the Centre on January 2 said that the rule has not come into force yet.

The Ministry of Home Affairs said that the law, which carries a punishment of up to 10 years imprisonment, will be implemented only after a discussion with All India Motor Transport Congress representatives.

Ministry spokesperson Ajay Bhalla said that the government and All India Motor Transport Congress have appealed to drivers to return to work.

President of All India Motor Transport Congress Amrit Lal Madan said speaking to reporters, “You are not just our drivers you are our soldiers. Like soldiers work on the country's borders, you guys work. We do not want you to face any inconvenience. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has kept the ten years of punishment & fine that was imposed, on hold. Until the next meeting of the All India Motor Transport Congress is held no laws will be imposed.”