Protest against hit-and-run law causes traffic disruption in Jamshedpur, Police intervention and QRT lathi charge quells road protest

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, Jan 1: Drivers staged a protest and blocked NH 33 at Dimna Chowk in Ulidih OP area of Jamshedpur, opposing the new hit-and-run law implemented by the Central Government. Parked vehicles obstructed the road as drivers raised slogans against the legislation, causing significant traffic delays on both sides of the highway. Families returning from New Year picnics also faced inconvenience due to the roadblock.

Upon receiving information about the protest, local police arrived at the scene to pacify the demonstrators. Despite initial attempts, the protesters remained adamant, prompting the police to use mild force to disperse the crowd. However, the demonstrators regrouped, leading to the deployment of the Quick Response Team (QRT). Subsequently, a lathi charge by the QRT successfully cleared the area, restoring normalcy.

Protesting drivers expressed concerns about the new law, asserting that it will create hardships for many drivers who may face fines and imprisonment in case of accidents. Drivers argued that they already receive meager salaries and questioned how they would afford the hefty penalties. They criticized the government for implementing laws that they believe are not suitable for the Indian context.

DSP Patmada Sumit Kumar clarified that the traffic jam resulted from improperly parked trucks, and the situation was resolved after the vehicles were repositioned.