Several pro-Kannada groups have called for a statewide shutdown in Karnataka on Saturday, March 22, for a period of 12 hours from 6 am to 6 pm, protesting against the alleged assault on a bus conductor in Belagavi.
A Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus conductor in Belagavi last month for not speaking Marathi. The incident has sparked outrage among Kannada organizations, leading to demands for stricter action and better protection for Kannadigas in neighboring states.
Speaking to reporters, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar urged people to maintain peace and abide by the law. "We will protect the interests of the state. Everyone should maintain peace and follow the law. However, I feel there is no need for a bandh," he said, PTI reported.
Security has been tightened across the state to prevent any untoward incidents, with authorities urging citizens to stay updated on advisories. Businesses, educational institutions, and transport services may face disruptions as the protest gains momentum.
What's open, what's closed?
- BMTC and KSRTC bus services may be affected, with some buses staying off the roads depending on the situation. While there is no official confirmation of a complete shutdown, private cabs and autos could also see limited operations as certain unions have extended support to the bandh.
- Hotel associations, malls, bars, and restaurants have only offered "moral support" and will remain open, PTI reported.
- Essential services—including pharmacies, hospitals, ambulances, petrol pumps, and metro services—will remain operational despite the bandh.
- According to Bengaluru Deputy Commissioner Jagadeesha G, no holiday has been declared for schools and colleges in Bengaluru. However, with transport services likely to be disrupted, the bandh is expected to impact lakhs of SSLC (class 10) students appearing for their exams tomorrow.
- Government offices will also be open.
What led to the Karnataka Bandh?
Last month, a KSRTC conductor of a bus plying from Belagavi to Balekundri was allegedly assaulted by individuals associated with pro-Marathi organisations for not speaking their language.
Following the incident, inter-state bus services between Maharashtra and Karnataka were suspended. The attack on the conductor sparked a debate on the long history of language disputes between the two states.
A coalition of various pro-Kannada organisations called Kannada Okkuta, has organised the bandh, demanding strict action against pro-Marathi activists for inciting violence and disturbing communal harmony in the region.
(With inputs from PTI)
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