Under the new Bharatiya Nyaya (Second) Sanhita, 2023, hit-and-run cases can attract a jail term of 10 years and a fine of Rs 7 lakh.

A wave of protests broke out in various states as drivers and truck drivers expressed their dissatisfaction over the stringent 'hit-and-run' provision in the new penal law.

The three-day strike that began on Monday is likely to affect the distribution of petrol and diesel and the supply of fruits and vegetables at fuel stations in the coming days.

Truck, taxi, and bus operators went on a nationwide strike protesting the new provision of imposing a Rs 7 lakh fine and 10-year jail term for hit-and-run cases under the Indian Judicial Code (IPC).

They demanded the central government to withdraw this provision, claiming that it could cause them to face undue harassment.

Since oil tanker drivers are also on strike, some states have reported low availability of fuel.

Ludhiana Goods Transport Association President JP Aggarwal said that if the strike continues for another day, there will be a shortage of fuel.

"The supply of vegetables, fruits and other essential commodities will be affected in the next few days," he said.

The All India Motor Transport Congress had called for the strike to protest against the provisions of the new law, which has not yet been implemented.

Congress has called a meeting on Tuesday to decide the future strategy.