Bharat Bandh Planned For August 21 In Protest of Supreme Court Ruling

Bharat Bandh to be imposed on Wednesday, August 21 following protests over recent SC ruling

Attention India
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On Wednesday, August 21, the Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti called for a nationwide Bharat Bandh to protest the Supreme Court’s recent decision regarding SC/ST reservations. This bandh has gained strong support from SC/ST groups in Rajasthan and is expected to see widespread participation.

Supreme Court’s Ruling On Sub-Categorisation

The Supreme Court’s ruling allows states to create sub-categories within Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) groups. The court stated that reservations should prioritize those in greater need within these categories. This decision has sparked controversy and led to the Bharat Bandh, with protesters demanding the reversal of the ruling.

Police Instructed To Be Present In All States 

In response to the planned bandh, the police have been instructed to increase their presence across all districts to ensure public safety and maintain order. Director General of Police (DGP) UR Sahoo has emphasized the need for coordination with local officials, market associations, and organizers to manage the situation effectively. Meetings have been held to prepare for the potential disruptions.

Public Transport And Markets To Be Affected 

The Bharat Bandh is anticipated to impact public transport and private businesses, as organizers have urged markets and offices to shut down. However, it remains uncertain whether all businesses will comply. Emergency services, including ambulances, are expected to remain operational despite the bandh. Authorities are taking extensive measures to prevent violence and ensure that essential services continue to function. Top police officials have conducted a video conference to review security preparations, with special attention given to sensitive areas such as Western Uttar Pradesh. Senior officers, district magistrates, and divisional commissioners were involved in the discussions to ensure that all necessary steps were taken to protect the public during the protests.

NACDAOR Calls For Safeguard of Reservation Provisions

The bandh is backed by various social and political organizations that view the Supreme Court’s decision as unjust. They argue that the ruling undermines previous judicial frameworks intended to protect and promote the rights of marginalized communities. The National Confederation of Dalit and Adivasi Organizations (NACDAOR) has called for a new Act of Parliament to safeguard reservation provisions and prevent judicial interference.

Demands Of Participants In The Bharat Bandh 

Participants in the bandh are also demanding the release of caste-based data on government employees, the filling of backlog vacancies, and affirmative action policies in private companies receiving government support. As the Bharat Bandh approaches, authorities are bracing for potential disruptions and are working to ensure a peaceful demonstration while maintaining essential services.

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