A nationwide shutdown, known as Bharat Bandh, is scheduled for August 21st, organized by the Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti. This protest aims to challenge the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) communities. The court’s decision allows states to create sub-categories within these groups for reservation benefits, with the objective of prioritizing those in dire need. However, this ruling has ignited widespread debate and opposition, with many arguing that it undermines the existing reservation system.
The Bharat Bandh is expected to garner support from various social and political organizations across the country. The protesters aim to highlight what they perceive as an unjust decision by the Supreme Court and demand its reversal. The protest is anticipated to disrupt normal life, with public transport and private offices likely to remain closed. However, essential services like ambulances will continue to operate.
In anticipation of potential unrest during the bandh, police forces throughout India are on high alert. Senior officials have held meetings via video conferencing to strategize security measures. Western Uttar Pradesh has been deemed particularly sensitive, with police in the region placed on heightened alert. Authorities are taking comprehensive steps to ensure the safety of the public amidst the protests.
