New Delhi, June 28 : The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Tuesday said it has issued an advisory to the Centre, States and Union Territories to protect the human rights of commercial truck drivers.
Issuing the Advisory, the Commission has observed that despite making the significant contribution to the economy of the nation, the rightful entitlements of the truck drivers do not get adequate attention, as the truck business remains fragmented and unorganised.
The advisory has focused on four key areas for action by the Centre, States and UT administrations. These include, protection from exploitation, provision of amenities to the drivers, provision of socio economic security and the physical and mental well being of the commercial truck drivers.
Among some of the important recommendations are to amend the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988 to provide for mandatory purchase of personal accident cover for an amount not less than Rs 15 lakh for each driver, co-driver and helper of a commercial truck; provide cashless treatment to them if injured or incapacitated in road accidents, a statement said here.
The recommendation also includes a group insurance scheme providing for life as well as health cover for truck drivers on payment of a nominal subsidised subscription, and deployment of highway patrols in the areas vulnerable to exploitation by anti-social elements, it said.
The Commission has asked for the implementation of its recommendations in the advisory and sought action taken report within three months.