Following the ruling nationwide protest on the Supreme Court allowing creating sub-categories within SC/ST reservations, the Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti has called for Bharat Band on Wednesday, August 21, 2024. Notably, this nationwide shutdown has gained support from the SC/ST groups in Rajasthan and is anticipated to receive widespread attention across the country.  

Why Bharat Bandh? 

As per the information, the Supreme Court’s recent decision to allow states to create subcategories within the SC and ST groups has sparked major controversy across the nation. The opposition claimed that it undermines the rights and principles of the Reservation system. This Bharat Bandh is aimed to challenge the concept and demand its reversal. 

Authorities on High Alert 

Meanwhile, the authorities are instructed to obey certain measures and maintain law and order during the whole day of protest. In view of the possibility of violence during this closure, the Police officials including the seniors are anticipated to increase their presence across the districts. Earlier today, a high-level meeting was also held through video conferencing among the authorities including divisional commissioners, district magistrates, and senior police officers. Reportedly, Uttar Pradesh is likely to be a sensitive area, which has been placed on high alert. 

What’s closed and What’s open? 

This is to be noted that the organizing groups have urged all the business organizations to keep markets closed. However, it remains unclear if markets will be closed as there is no such information received from the market committees. 

Further, the Bandh is expected to disrupt other facilities, as public transport and private offices, emergency services, including ambulances, will remain operational.  

In addition, the government offices, banks, schools, colleges, petrol pumps, and emergency services such as medical, drinking water, public transport, rail services, and electricity services will also remain open.