Bharat Bandh call on August 21: Here's what you need to know

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The Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti has called for a Bharat Bandh tomorrow, i.e., on August 21. Here’s all you need to know about it.

Why the bandh?

The bandh has been called in response to the Supreme Court's ruling on reservations for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes; the samiti has sought a reversal of the SC order. It has been backed by SC/ST groups in Rajasthan and will likely see widespread support.

The top court on August 1 allowed states to create sub-categories within the scheduled castes (SCs) and scheduled tribes (STs), saying, "Those who really need it should get priority in reservation."

What measures have been taken to maintain peace?

Senior civil and police officials held a meeting to assess the preparation for the bandh to avoid violence. All divisional commissioners, district magistrates and senior police officers attended the meeting through video conferencing and were directed to be prepared for the bandh. Police have reportedly been directed to deploy more personnel across districts to avoid any untoward incident.

What will be open?

Emergency services, including ambulance, hospitals, and medical services will stay open. Pharmacies will also stay open and it will be business as usual for government offices, banks, schools and colleges.