Srinagar, A widespread wheel jam strike has significantly disrupted traffic across Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) on the first day of a two-day protest against the Bharatiya Janata Party government’s new legislation. The legislation imposes strict punitive measures, including heavy fines for drivers involved in traffic accidents.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the strike was called by the All Kashmir Transporters’ Confederation and has seen a marked reduction in public transportation across key districts, including Srinagar, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, Islamabad, Baramullah, and Bandipora. This has left residents facing considerable difficulties in their daily commutes.
The strike has also received support from several states within India, including Maharashtra and New Delhi. Mohammad Shafi Mir, Chairman of the All Kashmir Transporters’ Confederation, confirmed that all types of passenger vehicles would continue to participate in the protest on January 10.
The controversial traffic law, which includes stringent measures like a 10-year jail term for drivers responsible for traffic accidents, has stirred significant concerns among the public and transporters. This has led to coordinated strikes and demonstrations, causing disruptions in normal life both in IIOJK and other parts of India.