Bharat Bandh today: Why nationwide protest has been launched? What all is closed
New Delhi : Bharat Bandh, a nationwide protest, has been launched by Dalit and Adivasi groups against a ruling by Supreme Court on SC/ST reservation. They are demanding justice for the marginalised communities by ensuring protected and strong representation.
What was Supreme Court's ruling?
The Supreme Court in one of its decisions said that the states can create a sub-classification within Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribes to ensure more exposure to the communities with relaxations in jobs and other fields. The court has also permitted to create a creamy layer within these categories.
Protests Erupt
Soon after the ruling, social and political organisations across the nation registered their unhappiness and claimed that this will create division among communities and undermines the principal of reservation. To ensure, their voices are heard, the communities have launched a nationwide protest against the ruling.
What are the demands?
The National Confederation of Dalit and Adivasi Organisations (NACDAOR) has put forth a list of demands, which includes justice and equity for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
The organisations have asked the communities to participate in peaceful protest on Wednesday. They are asking the government to reject the judgement, claiming that it jeopardises the constitutional rights of SC/ST.
Support from political parties
The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Congress, and the Rashtriya Janata Dal announced on Tuesday their support for the Bharat Bandh call given by various organizations on Wednesday. Left parties have also backed the call for the strike. JMM has instructed all its leaders, district presidents, secretaries, and district coordinators to actively participate in the 14-hour nationwide strike and show their support.
What is open/closed?
Despite call of Bharat Bandh, government offices and banks are likely to function as per normal routine. Buses and Metro services may experience disruptions but they will operate. Schools and colleges are also open.
Further, emergency services, including medical services, ambulances, drinking water supply, public transport, rail services, and electricity services, will remain operational.
