India: Ongoing nationwide protests and strikes by transport associations likely to persist through January /update 3

Protests and strikes by several heavy vehicle operators across India will likely persist through at least January. A small section of freight transport workers from Karnataka and Telangana states will hold indefinite work stoppages from Jan. 17. The actions are part of ongoing demonstrations denouncing an upcoming revision to the Motor Vehicles Act, which activists perceive will disproportionately penalize heavy vehicle operators in hit-and-run cases. The All India Motor Transport Congress - a national organization representing road transport workers - held a disruptive nationwide strike Jan. 1-2 that ended after officials promised to delay enforcement of the law until they reach an agreement. However, various local unions continue to stage demonstrations, strikes, and road blockades; affected areas in recent days include parts of Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh states. Participation is likely to remain low for similar strikes due to the lack of support from major unions. Significant disruptions are only likely during any additional nationwide strikes by prominent transport groups in the coming days. Solidarity actions may also cause limited disruptions to passenger vehicles.

Work stoppages have previously caused transport disruptions and sporadic violence. Demonstrators have also reportedly blocked and/or attacked non-participating vehicles. Alternative public transport services will probably face crowding and long wait times due to increased demand; employees will likely experience difficulty reaching workplaces, especially in urban centers during well-supported strikes. Intermittent supply chain disruptions affecting commodities, including food and fuel, and related business disruptions remain possible. Panic buying of fuel is especially likely ahead of any announced strikes, potentially leading to artificial shortages.

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security posture near popular protest sites, especially in state capitals and urban centers in northern Indian states, including key interstate highways, government buildings like district collector offices, major traffic intersections, and public squares. Police typically disperse unruly gatherings and/or roadblocks quickly but may resort to using force such as batons and warning gunfire. Protesters may engage in arson, vandalism, and clashes with security personnel.