Karnataka is bracing for a widespread bandh (shutdown) organized by pro-Kannada groups on Saturday, March 22, 2025. The protest, spearheaded by Kannada Okkoota, aims to address a variety of linguistic tensions, particularly an incident where a Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus conductor was reportedly assaulted in Belagavi for not speaking Marathi. This event has reignited old language disputes between Karnataka and Maharashtra, as well as concerns over local governance and cultural identity.
The bandh is scheduled to run from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and authorities expect substantial disruptions in various sectors, including public transport and daily activities across Karnataka, especially in Bengaluru. Businesses and educational institutions are cautiously preparing for the impacts, with some areas anticipating closures.
In the wake of heightened tensions, the activism surrounding the bandh reflects the long-standing grievances that have emerged from the ongoing language war in the region. The protest organizers are demanding strict action against pro-Marathi groups and a ban on associations like the Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti (MES), which they allege contribute to the discord between the two linguistic communities. Furthermore, they are advocating for protections for Kannada speakers and opposing the proposed division of Bengaluru into multiple administrative zones, fearing it might dilute Kannada cultural identity.
Despite these concerns, the Karnataka State ICSE Schools Association has assured parents and students that there will be no changes to the examination schedule for Class 12 ISC students, who have a home science exam slated for the same day. Some parents, however, remain anxious, concerned about potential disruptions in transportation to examination centers. Public transport services like KSRTC and BMTC have already indicated possible limitations, considering the participation of cab drivers and auto-rickshaw unions in the bandh.
N. Ashok Kumar, vice-president of the Ola Uber Drivers' and Owners' Association, voiced support for the bandh, stating, "No cabs will ply on the road Saturday." Alongside this, TN Sreenivas, president of the Auto Rickshaw Drivers Union, confirmed that all 20,000 members of his union would join the strike, leading to expectations of significant disruption for daily commuters.
Schools have been proactive in response to the impending bandh. Many have decided to close in anticipation of potential violence and disturbances. The Associated Managements of Private Unaided Schools in Karnataka noted that while exams for lower classes would proceed as scheduled, they are prepared for internal assessments to continue as planned.
In terms of essential services, hospitals, pharmacies, and essential health services are expected to operate normally throughout the bandh period. Similarly, facilities like fuel stations, some supermarkets, and quick commerce services such as Blinkit and Swiggy are expected to maintain operations, although local shops in areas like Chickpet and KR Market may close.
As the bandh looms, the Karnataka government has expressed concerns regarding public safety and the well-being of students and the community. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has been vocal about the government's position, reiterating, "The government does not support a bandh and encourages dialogue to address these issues amicably." His emphasis on maintaining peace and ensuring that students are not adversely affected underlines the delicate balance officials are attempting to strike amid escalating tensions.
Research on social media trends highlights the growing public interest surrounding the bandh. Notably, Google Trends indicates a spike in searches related to the upcoming shutdown, with queries regarding school operations on that day trending significantly from Thursday through Friday. Questions like "Is tomorrow a holiday?" and "What will be affected by the Karnataka bandh?" reflect the pervasive anxiety among residents as they prepare for what is expected to be a contentious day.
This bandh isn't just another strike; it's a reflection of the deep-seated grievances and socio-political dynamics that impact Karnataka and Maharashtra, especially concerning identity, culture, and language. With over 2,000 Kannada activists expected to support the protest, it stands to be a significant event in the ongoing narrative surrounding regional politics.
As Bengaluru braces for disruptions, both private and public sectors are closely monitoring developments. The decision by organizations to support the bandh, and the government's cautious response, underscores the complexities involved in resolving such deeply rooted conflicts. As the time approaches for the bandh, the situation remains fluid, and all eyes are on local responses and the actions of the protesting groups.
Ultimately, the events of March 22 could serve as a pivotal moment for Karnataka's pro-Kannada movements, as they voice their historical grievances while ensuring that the cultural identity of Kannada speakers is preserved and honored in the face of growing pressures from neighboring Maharashtra.
