Bharat Bandh Tomorrow: Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti Calls Nationwide Strike to Protest SC/ST Reservation Ruling

Rajasthan, August 20, 2024 — The Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti has announced a Bharat Bandh on August 21, 2024, as a mark of protest against the recent Supreme Court ruling concerning SC/ST reservations. The bandh, which has garnered significant support from SC/ST groups in Rajasthan, aims to challenge the Court's decision on sub-categorization within the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) groups.

Supreme Court's Controversial Ruling

The Supreme Court's ruling has sparked widespread debate and controversy. The decision allowed states to create sub-categories within SC and ST groups, asserting that "those who really need it should get priority in reservation." This move has been met with resistance from several communities and organizations, who believe that the ruling undermines the original intent of the reservation system. The Bharat Bandh is intended to demand the reversal of this decision, which protesters argue is unjust and discriminatory.

Support and Objectives of the Bharat Bandh

The Bharat Bandh is expected to receive widespread support from various social and political organizations across the country. The primary objective of the protest is to draw attention to what the Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti and supporting groups see as an unfair decision by the judiciary. They argue that the sub-categorization could lead to further marginalization of certain communities within the SC/ST groups and that the integrity of the reservation system must be preserved.

Security Measures in Place

In anticipation of potential unrest, law enforcement agencies have been put on high alert. According to a report by The Times of India, police deployment has been increased across all districts, with special focus on sensitive areas. Director General of Police (DGP) U.R. Sahoo confirmed that instructions have been issued to all Superintendents of Police (SPs) to ensure that law and order are maintained during the bandh.

"We have asked our officials to organize meetings with groups calling for the bandh, as well as with market associations, to facilitate better cooperation," DGP Sahoo told TOI.

In a video conference held earlier today, top police officials reviewed security preparations. Divisional commissioners, district magistrates, and senior police officers from across the state participated in the meeting, where strategies were discussed to handle any possible violence during the bandh.

Western Uttar Pradesh has been identified as particularly sensitive, leading to heightened security measures in the region. Officials are committed to ensuring the safety of the public, with emergency services such as ambulances remaining operational despite the expected disruptions to public transport and private businesses.

Public Response and Anticipations

As the nation braces for the bandh, public sentiment remains divided. While many support the call to action, others express concern over the disruption it may cause to daily life. Previous instances of Bharat Bandh have seen significant impact, with businesses shutting down, transportation services halting, and schools closing as a precautionary measure.

The outcome of tomorrow’s bandh could set the stage for further actions, depending on how the situation unfolds. All eyes will be on the response from both the public and the government as the nation awaits the day of protest.