Bharat Bandh 2024: Who Announced It and Why?
Today’s Bharat Bandh protests the Supreme Court's ruling on SC/ST reservation, calling for nationwide closure and demanding new legislation to protect reservation rights.
Today, India is observing a Bharat Bandh, a nationwide strike called by the National Confederation of Dalit and Adivasi Organisations (NACDAOR) and the Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti (RBSS). The strike, from 6 am to 6 pm, is in response to a recent Supreme Court verdict regarding reservation for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).
On 1 August 2024, the Supreme Court made a significant decision allowing Indian states to further divide SC and ST categories to ensure that the benefits of reservation reach more backward groups within these communities. The court also directed that the “creamy layer” — those who are relatively better off — should be excluded from the reservation quotas to focus on those who are most in need.
Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has criticized the verdict, calling it an attack on the reservation rights of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and SC/ST communities. He has voiced concerns that this decision will undermine the rights and opportunities available to these groups.
In response, NACDAOR and RBSS have mobilized a peaceful protest, calling for the closure of educational institutions, businesses, and public transport across India today. They urge the public to support the strike and demand that the central government reject the Supreme Court’s ruling. The organizations are also pushing for a new central law that would protect reservation rights from judicial interference.
Law enforcement agencies have been preparing for the Bandh, particularly in states like Rajasthan, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. Authorities have increased their presence and coordination with local SC/ST organizations to maintain peace and prevent any disruptions.
While the Bharat Bandh is in effect, essential services such as healthcare, fire services, and public water supply will continue to operate. Educational institutions, government offices, and banks are expected to be closed as part of the strike.
The protest has garnered widespread support from various social and political groups across the country. The NACDAOR and RBSS are calling for solidarity in their efforts to ensure social justice and fair representation for SC/ST communities in jobs and education.
