It’s just another day as Bharat Bandh fizzles out

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, August 21

The impact of the Reserve Bachao Sangharsh Committee’s Bharat Bandh call was minimal in the city, as residents went about their business as usual. Everything was open, from schools and colleges to malls, government and private offices.

Organisers from 21 national organisations had issued a call for Bharat Bandh in response to a recent Supreme Court verdict on SC/ST reservation.

Except the BSP, the bandh call received little support from other groups. Some BSP members were seen peacefully protesting at Bharat Nagar chowk. Later, they went to the District Administrative Complex to present their memorandum against the verdict.

Meanwhile, there was some misunderstanding about the opening of schools following the bandh call. Parents were observed messaging one another to check if schools were open.

However, markets, malls, universities and schools, industries, and other facilities were open today, with no pressure from any group to close them. In short, it was just another day in the city.

Reason behind bandh call

According to sources, the Supreme Court order permitted states to create sub-categories under the SC and ST groups, adding that those who ‘genuinely’ needed reservation should get priority. Controversy followed, with some SC/ST leaders voicing concern over possibility of aggravated marginalisation. Consequently, a call was made for Bharat Bandh. Sources said the main goal of the bandh was to contest the SC’s decision and demand its reversal.