Karnataka Bandh: The state is currently experiencing the statewide bandh that pro-Kannada organisations in Karnataka announced in protest against the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu. Pro-Kannada groups organised protests and banner-waving at various sites as the band got going at six in the morning. More than 50 individuals representing various organisations have been detained in various sections of the state.
Statewide Closure Disrupts Transit Services and Facilities
Due to the state-wide closure of transit services, hotels, and other facilities, the dawn-to-dusk protest had an impact on daily life. Protest marches are scheduled around the state, notably in Bengaluru, the state capital. All educational institutions in the districts of Bengaluru and Mandya are still closed, and the city is subject to section 144 restrictions. All around the state, a sizable number of police officers have been stationed. At the Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, 44 flights that were due to depart and arrive early on Friday have been cancelled, of which 22 were arriving and 22 were departing. According to airport officials, there were operational reasons for it, and passengers were promptly informed. Sources claimed that the Karnataka Bandh was to blame for the cancellations, as many people had done so.
Businesses and Services Remain Closed
The state’s stores, malls, and other business buildings are all still shuttered. Along with auto and taxi services, hotels, restaurants, and movie theatres are not operating. Highways and toll gates were also stopped by pro-Kannada organisations. When they arrived at Bengaluru‘s Kempegowda International Airport, a group of demonstrators yelled slogans. The cops have given them a full report. Strong protests are expected to take place today in the state’s southern region. All schools and colleges under the control of the districts of Bengaluru and Mandya have been given the day off. In the meantime, section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure has been implemented, according to Bengaluru Commissioner of Police B Dayananda, who also stated that the bandh will not be permitted in the city. Along with other places, security has also been present in Mysuru, Kodagu, Mandya, Chamarajanagar, and Ramanagara.
Bengaluru’s Metro System Continues Running Amidst Bandh
Bengaluru Metro rail is still operational, nevertheless. The State Transport Department has also given the state transport corporations instructions to carry on with business as usual. Government offices will be open, as will banks, hospitals, and pharmacies. Kannada Okkuta, an umbrella group representing Kannada outfits including factions of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, Kannada Chalavali (Vatal Paksha), and numerous farmers’ organisations, has called for a state-wide shutdown. The bandh has gained more backing from the opposition BJP and JD(S). From Bengaluru’s Town Hall to Freedom Park, a sizable rally is scheduled. The protest march is expected to draw participants from all walks of life and many organisations, according to the organisers.
Ola Uber Drivers and Autorickshaw Drivers Back Bandh
The bandh is supported by the Ola Uber Drivers and Owners’ Association (OUDOA) and the Autorickshaw Drivers’ Union. Other organisations that have declared support include the Karnataka State Private Schools’ Association and the Bruhath Bangaluru Hotel Association. Due to the closure, districts in Karnataka that border Tamil Nadu have been placed on high alert. The superintendents of police in bordering districts including Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Salem, Erode, and Nilgiris were also instructed to take precautions by the chief of police for Tamil Nadu. At checkpoints, security personnel have been deployed more often.
Authorities Establish Emergency Helpline for Bandh-Related Issues
A helpline has been established by the authorities due to the closure. Callers to the helpline numbers 9498170430 and 9498215407 are urged to get assistance. After the Supreme Court declined to become involved in the judgements made by the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) and its supporting body, the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC), ordering the state to transfer Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu, protests over the decision grew more intense. The Cauvery Water Regulation Committee’s order to Karnataka to send water to Tamil Nadu at a rate of 3,000 cubic feet per second (cusecs) until October 15 would be contested in court, according to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
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