The statewide protest known as “Bharat Bandh” was planned on August 21 by Dalit and Adivasi organization’s in response to a recent Supreme Court decision regarding SC/ST reservations. They wanted more protection and representation for populations who were marginalized.
What decision did the Supreme Court make?
The states are permitted to establish subclassifications within Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), according to a recent 6:1 decision by the Supreme Court.
The apex also permitted states to create creamy layer within these categories ensuring that those who are most in need within these groups receive priority which was later turned down by the Centre.
However, this ruling sparked widespread controversy and opposition from several social and political organizations. Critics argue that it undermines the principles of reservation and could lead to increased division among communities.
Bharat Bandh: What are the demands?
The National Confederation of Dalit and Adivasi Organization’s (NACDAOR) has put forth a list of demands, which includes justice and equity for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
The organization has appealed to Dalits, Adivasis, and OBCs to participate in a peaceful agitation on Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of their collective action in achieving their demands for justice and equality.
The NACDAOR said that the recent judgement undermines the earlier ruling of a nine-judge bench in the landmark Indira Sawhney case, the cornerstone of India’s reservation framework.
The organization has called upon the government to reject this judgment, asserting that it jeopardizes the constitutional rights of SCs and STs.
Additionally, the NACDAOR is advocating for the enactment of a new Act of Parliament on reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs, to be safeguarded by inclusion in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution. This measure, they contend, will protect these provisions from judicial interference and foster social harmony.
The organization has also demanded the immediate release of caste-based data on SC/ST/OBC employees in government services to ensure accurate representation and are pushing for the establishment of an Indian Judicial Service to recruit judicial officers and judges from all sections of society, with a target of 50 per cent representation from SC, ST, and OBC categories in the higher judiciary.
JMM, Congress, Left, RJD extend support to Bharat Bandh
The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Congress, and the Rashtriya Janata Dal announced on Tuesday their support for the Bharat Bandh call given by various organizations on Wednesday. Left parties have also backed the call for the strike.
JMM has instructed all its leaders, district presidents, secretaries, and district coordinators to actively participate in the 14-hour nationwide strike and show their support.
Vinod Kumar Pandey, JMM general secretary, said, “The recent verdict given by the Supreme Court on the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe reservations would prove to be an obstacle in the path of upliftment and strengthening of the SC/ST classes.”
Kailash Yadav, RJD state general secretary and media in-charge, confirmed that the party has decided to support and participate in the day-long strike. Similarly, Rakesh Sinha, the state Congress spokesperson, also announced the party’s support for the bandh call.
What might be affected during Bharat Bandh today
- The organizing group has requested that all business establishments remains close on Wednesday. However, Market committees have not yet confirmed widespread closures.
- Additionally, public transport, including metro services, may experience disruptions.
- Educational institutions such as schools and colleges are expected to remain open despite the bandh.
- Government offices and banks are likely to function normally. There may be some impact on services due to reduced staff and increased security measures.
- Further, emergency services, including medical services, ambulances, drinking water supply, public transport, rail services, and electricity services, will remain operational.
Rajasthan Bharat Bandh: Educational institutes remain closed
All the educational institutions will remain closed in seven districts of Rajasthan on August 21 in the wake of the Bharat Bandh call given by the Aarakshan Bachao Sangharsh Samiti.
The shutdown will be witnessed in the districts of Jaipur, Alwar, Dausa, Sawai Madhopur, Deeg, Jaisalmer and Bharatpur.
Kota University examinations have also been postponed.
Congress and Scheduled Caste-Tribe Sanyukt Sangharsh Samiti have also supported the Bharat Bandh.
Aarakshan Bachao Sangharsh Samiti has formed 25 units for the Jaipur bandh, which will ask traders to shut down their shops. A rally will also be held by the bandh supporters.
Rajasthan’s DGP, UR Sahoo, has instructed district Superintendents of Police to maintain order and engage with local organization’s. “We have asked our officials to organize meetings with groups calling for the bandhand with market associations to facilitate better cooperation,” said Sahoo.
In Jaipur, Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph has already initiated dialogue with groups supporting the strike. The authorities are taking proactive measures to prevent any potential conflicts or disruptions during the protest.
Get the latest news updates and stay informed with FELA NEWS!
Source: TOI
