On August 21, 2024, a Bharat Bandh is called in response to the recent verdict on SC/ST reservations by the Supreme Court, the Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti. This band will likely to be a large turnout, which has the backing of Rajasthan’s SC/ST groups. During the protest, SC officials have been directed to take appropriate action to preserve order.
There has been a lot of debate regarding the Supreme Court’s ruling to permit states to divide the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Schedule Tribes (ST) into smaller groups. The decision made clear that reservations should be made with priority for people in need. Numerous political and social groups have opposed this decision, claiming that it violates the fundamentals of reservation. The goal of the Bharat Bandh is to contest this decision and call for its reversal.
Police authorities have stepped up their presence throughout the regions in preparation of possible disturbances. DGP UR Sahoo quoted, “We have asked our officials to organize meetings with groups calling for the bandh, as well as with market associations, to facilitate better cooperation.”
Senior police officers, district magistrates, and divisional commissioners participated in a high-level video conference. Due to its sensitivity, Western Uttar Pradesh has been put on high alert. As per the sources, emergency services, such as ambulances, will continue to operate throughout the bandh, despite the disruptions to private offices and public transport that are anticipated.
Government buildings, banks, schools, institutions, and gas stations are expected to remain open. Due to the lack of confirmation from the market committees, it is still unknown whether markets would truly close or whether the shutdown will impact the entire nation.