Bharat Bandh: Here's everything you need to know about the shutdown called by farmers

The 'Bharat Bandh' - a nationwide shutdown called by protesting farmers against agricultural related laws will be practised today from 11 am to 3 pm. The Bharat Bandh has not been forced and it is up to vendors/sellers whether they want to support the movement or not. However, overall bus, train and other transport services in many states are likely to be affected. In many states, including Haryana and Delhi, where protesting farmers have camped, police has re-routed traffic to facilitate commuters.

Here's some main points

*Many mandis(wholesale markets) have come out in support of Bharat Bandh with Azadpur Mandi of Delhi among others to remain shut in the capital.

*Farmers are most likely to stop buses, train and block highways, but they have assured that the movement will be peaceful and emergency services such as ambulance will not be stopped

*It is appealed to all to maintain peace in Bharat Bandh. Action will be taken against those who indulge in any forcible closure/stoppages: Rachakonda Police, Telangana

*Bank Unions have decided to show solidarity with farmers, however, they will not participate in Bharat bandh but will wear black ribbon to oppose the farm bills.

*Kangana Ranaut, who has been supporting farm laws, have slammed Bharat Bandh.

*Delhi Police have beefed up security at all borders and will be taking action against those who force anyone to join shutdown forcefully.

*Tamil Nadu, ruled by AIADMK, has denied to support shutdown. Despite many attempts by opposition, the traders' federation has decided not to shut down. However, neighbouring state Telangana is backing the Bharat Bandh with CM K Chandrashekar Rao himself asking people to actively participate.

*Social Activist Anna Hazare on Tuesday announced a hunger strike to support agitating farmers who have called Bharat Bandh over the controversial farm laws.

*If the Government has a heart, be it the Home Minister or the Prime Minister, they themselves will go & talk to them (farmers): Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena(ANI)

Mostly BJP-ruled states are expected to not be affected by the Bharat Bandh, however, rural areas in Haryana where farmers are in majority may back the movement. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh, which is not backing the shutdown, will keep business as usual.

North eastern states have not released advisories for today while Rajasthan, Bengal, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra are expected to be severely affected.